Time is running out for millions of women and children who are victims of family violence. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) - landmark legislation that provides funding for hotlines, shelters and services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking nationwide- will expire unless Congress finalizes the bill and sends it to the President's desk before FRIDAY, when the Senate will end their session.
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Every day in this country 3 women will be murdered by the men who profess to love them, 700 women will be raped and over 9000 children will witness their mothers being abused.
The social and economic impact of violence against women cannot be underestimated - The medical and mental health care costs of intimate partner violence exceed $5.8 billion each year and cost U.S. employers an estimated $3 to $13 billion annually.
In addition to the immediate trauma caused by abuse, violence against women contributes to a number of chronic health problems including depression, alcohol and substance abuse, eating disorders and sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV/AIDS.
Children who are abused or who witness abuse are at increased risk of behavioral problems, school failure and drop out, juvenile delinquincy, depression, eating disorders, alcohol and substance abuse, suicide, and adult criminality.
Violence agaisnt women is a key cause of poverty and homelessness for women and children. Two thirds of welfare recipients have been abused and as many as 92% of homeless women have been severely abused or sexually assaulted at somepoint in their lives.
If passed, the Violence Against Women Act will allow up to $5 billion in funding over the next 5 years for programs that will help to keep our families safe.
LIVES ARE AT STAKE IF THIS BILL DOESN'T PASS!!
Congress has spend an inordinate amount of time, energy and money on so-called Homeland Security.
Before they go home for the holidays with their families, let's make sure they pass the one bill that will help ensure the safety and security of women and children in their homes.
Visit http://www.stopfamilyviolence.org/... to urge them to finalize VAWA now!