HOUSTON — With new victims every day, the government and community was intent on stopping intimate partner violence in Harris County.
Harris County Commissioners Court unanimously approved a $4 million investment to expand resources for domestic violence survivors, addressing a critical shortage in support services for the region. The initiative, led by Commissioner Lesley Briones, aims to reduce the number of people turned away from shelters by at least 10% over the next four years.
The county faces stark challenges, having led Texas in intimate partner violence homicides since 2022, with only 330 shelter beds available for 4.7 million residents. Currently, 75% of people seeking shelter are turned away, highlighting the urgent need for increased support.
An initial $1 million from the American Rescue Plan Act will be awarded to the Houston Area Women's Center (HAWC) to lead the effort. The project will focus on building capacity, improving community outreach, and establishing funding partnerships.
"Everyone deserves to be safe and free from violence," Commissioner Briones said. Commissioner Rodney Ellis added that the investment is part of a "full-court press against domestic violence" in a region where state policies have complicated the issue.
This investment brings Harris County's total commitment to combating domestic violence to nearly $20 million since 2022, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to supporting survivors.
If you need help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.