Mike Burrus: Abuse can be economic

Last month’s high-profile news events involving the NFL have pushed the issue of domestic violence into the public sphere as we recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October.

The cases involving Ray Rice and Adrian Peterson reinforced what most people think of when they hear the term domestic violence: physical abuse. But the truth is that domestic violence is a pervasive, insidious public health problem that involves far more than punching and hitting.

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Wichita, has several services for survivors of domestic violence. One of them is the SAFE Project, which assists victims in finding safety and employment. But it also helps them overcome economic abuse – one of the most consequential aspects of domestic violence.

Economic abuse doesn’t make the headlines, but it can be devastating. It occurs when the abuser prevents the victim from working, accessing bank accounts or using other financial means to gain independence. According to the Allstate Foundation, financial security is the top predictor of whether a domestic violence victim will break free – and stay free – from abuse.

The SAFE Project is a partnership with the Kansas Department for Children and Families that helps domestic violence survivors who also receive welfare benefits remove employment barriers. Services include financial education, career services, healthy relationship education, conflict resolution and safety planning.

On one hand, we are proud to report that our shelter and outreach services have increased the number of domestic violence survivors we serve this year by nearly 15 percent. Our domestic violence programs reached 825 people in fiscal year 2014.

The flip side of our growth in services is that the need has never been greater.

This year our domestic violence shelter, Harbor House, has had to turn away an average of 98 women and children per month because of a lack of space, up from 51 in 2013. Fortunately we’re not the only local service provider for domestic violence survivors. Victims can always call us at 866-899-5522 for help, or they can visit DVFreeWichita.org or the Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence website, kcsdv.org, to learn about multiple community resources.

As we continue to shine a spotlight on domestic violence this month, let’s remember the crucial role economics play in helping victims realize a life free from abuse.

This story was originally published October 1, 2014 at 7:02 PM with the headline "Mike Burrus: Abuse can be economic."