Cordray Brings Financial Guidance to Domestic Violence Shelters

The Ohio Domestic Violence Network has learned through focus groups around that state that personal finances are the most compelling reason preventing battered women from leaving an abusive situation. Finances made it harder for 89 percent of women to leave, compared to 77 percent who indicated they were concerned for the well-being of their children, and 67 percent who said they feared for the lives of themselves or others.

This is why it is so important that Ohio Treasurer Richard Cordray, the Ohio Domestic Violence Network, and Verizon Wireless today announced a plan to bring resources and information to women who are trying to escape domestic violence. “Women who must, for the sake of themselves and their children, escape an abusive situation are in critical need of help in assessing and rebuilding their personal financial situation,” said Nancy Neylon, Executive Director of the Ohio Domestic Violence Network, in the press release. “This initiative will lessen the struggles these survivors must endure. We’re gratified to see that Treasurer Cordray recognizes this need and is taking action to address it.”

The plan involves two-hour "Financial Freedom NOW" workshops which are coordinated by Treasurer Cordray’s office, presented in cooperation with the Ohio Domestic Violence Network, and funded through a grant of over $12,000 from Verizon Wireless. Participants will receive help in assessing their financial situation, an action plan for addressing their challenges, materials for organizing financial documents and records, local resources, and instruction on financial components of legal and housing needs.

The workshops are scheduled for Columbus, Cleveland, Marion, St. Clairsville and Toledo, with more expected to be held in the coming months. Workshop presenters include Consumer Credit Counseling Service; Fifth Third Bank; Ohio State Legal Services Association; Southeastern Ohio Legal Services; Legal Aid Societies of Columbus, Cleveland, Marion, and Toledo; and the Belmont, Columbus, Cuyahoga, Lucas, and Marion Metropolitan Housing Authorities.

“Domestic violence service organizations tell us that the number of victims who say they need financial guidance is greater than the number who need vocational and child care assistance combined,” said Cordray. “The kind of information we can provide to women during this key period in their recovery will give them the necessary tools to rebuild their lives and those of their children.”