Letter to the Editor: Don't gut services for victims
For the last decade, I have been with Family Resources advocating for survivors of sexual and domestic abuse and other violent crimes. Family Resources is a well-established non-profit serving western Illinois and eastern Iowa.
Most of our clients have experienced some form of trauma. Our programs ensure that clients’ needs are met through counseling, emergency housing, advocacy, education and proving basic need items. When we support well-being, we make sure that everyone can reach their potential and fully contribute to our communities. Advocates play an important role in this success by collaborating with law enforcement, hospitals and the judicial system.
One in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. One in 3 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday. These survivors are our neighbors, friends, relatives and co-workers.
Nicole Cisne Durbin
Family Resources, Inc.
