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Economic Justice & Empowerment

Cited as the most significant factor in preventing victims from leaving abusive situations, financial abuse occurs in 98% of domestic violence cases. PCADV’s economic justice and empowerment work has been facilitated through the Economic Justice and Empowerment Initiative (The Initiative) since 2012.

The Initiative is a multi-faceted, statewide coordinated effort between PCADV and our network of 59 community-based domestic violence programs. The primary goal of The Initiative is to improve the social conditions that prevent long-term independence and safety through comprehensive domestic violence program advocate training and the continual development of tools and resources that address the barriers to economic stability and safety. To achieve this goal, The Initiative focuses on providing advocates with the tools and resources to help survivors access education, develop budgeting skills, repair credit, build savings, find affordable housing and gain meaningful employment.

What Does Economic Justice Mean for Survivors?

  • Increased income 
  • Obtaining a living wage job 
  • Ability to pay their bills on time
  • Financial skills / literacy
  • Repaired credit
  • Stable, long-term housing
  • Access to higher education
  • Increased job skills
  • Resume and interview skills

PCADV’s Economic Justice Initiative has helped:

  • 3,000 survivors

  • 43% increased income/obtained a living wage

  • 43% accessed higher education

View the Full Report

The Gender Wage Gap

Women in the United States earn 80 cents for every dollar a man earns. This trend is known as the gender wage gap, or pay inequity. The gender wage gap exists regardless of industry and level of education and is even worse for mothers and women of color. The wage gap has negative impacts on women, both economically and on their health, many of which are also known risk factors for domestic violence. Learn more about pay equity and how it impacts domestic violence survivors.

Gender Wage Gap Report and Fact Sheet

Help Survivors Gain Financial Independence

Please consider donating to PCADV’s Economic Justice Initiative. $25 helps a survivor build or repair credit. $50 provides career training and coaching for a survivor. Every dollar counts.

Donate Today

More Ways to Get Involved

Whether you represent a nonprofit or a local program, are an advocate, an individual looking to contribute, or you yourself are currently experiencing domestic violence, there are many ways to stay connected and take action. Learn more about how to volunteer, become an advocate, or share your story.

Get Involved

PCADV is committed to enhancing the lives of victims of domestic violence and to providing life-saving resources. To learn more about the Economic Justice Initiative, please reach out to our team

Contact PCADV