[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 58 (Thursday, April 10, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E726]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               TRANSITIONAL HOUSING FOR VICTIMS OF ABUSE

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. JANICE D. SCHAKOWSKY

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, April 9, 2003

  Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing a bipartisan bill 
that would establish a program for transitional housing assistance for 
victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Passage of this 
legislation is long overdue, as thousands of women and their children 
continue to suffer at the hands of their abusers simply because they 
have no where else to go.
  I am proud to be joined in this effort by my colleague from the other 
body, Senator Patrick Leahy, who is introducing identical legislation 
today. I would also like to commend the 25 bipartisan cosponsors who 
have joined me in seeking relief and assistance for abused women and 
children. No time is more appropriate than the present to introduce a 
bill that seeks to help those who have suffered violence in their 
personal lives and in their homes.
  Senator Leahy and I recognize and understand the complex issues 
facing women and their children who want nothing more than a safe and 
secure home. Transitional housing is often the link between emergency 
housing and a victim's ability to become self-sufficient. This bill 
opens the doors to new opportunities for survivors because, in addition 
to a roof and a bed, transitional housing programs also offer 
supportive services, such as counseling, job training, access to 
education, and child care. These tools are critical to allowing women 
to get back on their feet and to be able to support their children in a 
home that is free from violence.
  This bill would authorize $30 million for each fiscal year from 2004 
through 2008. The program would be added to the Violence Against Women 
Act and would be funded through the Violence Against Women Office in 
the Department of Justice. With 50% of homeless women on the streets 
because of domestic violence, it is critical that we address the unique 
needs of this large and vulnerable population. The Violence Against 
Women Office has the unique understanding and ability to help these 
women and children.
  It is now essential that we not only pass this legislation but also 
appropriate $30 million for transitional housing assistance and provide 
this critically needed safety net for women seeking to escape abuse. 
The women and children of this country deserve nothing less.

                          ____________________