National Domestic Violence Hotline Applauds Passage of American Rescue Plan of 2021
H.R. 1319 provides much needed relief for survivors

The National Domestic Violence Hotline (The Hotline) applauds the passage of the American Rescue Plan of 2021 (H.R. 1319). This momentous piece of legislation contains broad provisions that will not only increase safety and well-being for survivors and their families through economic and health resources, but also provide funding for the critical programs that serve them.

The American Rescue Plan includes:

  • $180 million for the Family Violence Prevention Services Act (FVPSA);
  • $198 million for sexual assault services through rape crisis centers;
  • $49.5 million for culturally specific programs; and
  • $18 million for Tribal specific responses to gender-based violence.

It also includes $1 million each for The Hotline and StrongHearts Native Helpline to ensure critical, ongoing 24/7 hotline services to survivors reaching out for support, resources, and safety planning during this time of heightened risk due to the COVID-19 health crisis.

“The American Rescue Plan invests in survivors by bolstering the systems that provide them lifesaving services and support,” said Katie Ray-Jones, Chief Executive Officer of The Hotline. “We hope that the resources provided in this legislation will give survivors the support they need to make the best decisions for themselves.”

While the American Rescue Plan provides much needed relief for survivors across the country, The Hotline looks forward to working with Congress on continued legislative efforts that ensure survivors and their families have what they need for a long-lasting solution to their healing.

“COVID-19 has created a desperate situation, and we must continue to address the needs of survivors – especially by providing relief,” said Katie Ray-Jones. “Job losses, hurdles to unemployment insurance, challenges with access to childcare, unstable housing, and a lack of consistent stimulus funds to supplement financial uncertainty are only some of the challenges survivors are navigating right now. We look forward to continue to engage with Congress to amplify the needs of survivors.”