Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence sees increase in need, decrease in funding

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ICADV) consists of more than 50 organizations across the state working to support domestic violence survivors.

Since COVID-19, the organization has seen an increased need for domestic violence support. In 2024, the organization had to turn away over 4,900 adults and 3,800 children seeking emergency shelter. This is a 22% increase from 2023. Only about 13% of adult survivors were able to secure emergency shelter and transitional housing.

"The housing need across all human services is the number one need in the state of Illinois," said ICADV CEO and President Carrie Boyd. "Domestic violence is the number one reason people seek supportive housing, and the time that a survivor makes the decision to leave an abuser is the most dangerous time in the entire relationship."

Boyd said housing is the most sought after resource statewide, but the need far exceeds what's available. ICADV also recently learned that 40% of their Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) grant, which supports housing efforts for the organization, has ended.

"It's going to be a lot of lives impacted, a lot of children and families who are not able to find shelter," said Boyd. "And we're afraid that will mean the continuation of these traumatic and toxic situations for families."

Boyd said the organization is trying to determine how to fill the funding gaps, and will likely need to turn to private fundraising. She stills wants to provide organizations and survivors the support they need.

"we've been through tough times before and like a ship designed for rough seas, so are we," said Boyd. " We are incredibly resourceful, we're nimble, and we continue to be innovative thinkers."

For more information on ICADV, visit their website. The Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline number is (877) 863-6338.