State Expands Domestic Violence, SAS Services

April 2, 2020

Today, the Illinois Dept. of Human Services (IDHS) announced the launch of a $1.2 million plan to increase capacity of its current statewide network of services for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors (SAS) during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

The plan expands the role of the Domestic Violence Helpline by creating a one-stop access point for shelter needs. Survivors who call the helpline directly at 877-TO END DV (877-863-6338 voice or 877-863-6339 TTY) will be connected to a shelter through existing Domestic Violence Prevention and Intervention (DVPI) shelter services or to emergency shelter through available hotels and motels. Survivors also may contact their local domestic violence programs for shelter assistance.

IDHS is also working with the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence to establish an emergency fund to support local providers with assistance needs related to COVID-19.

In addition, DVPI providers will receive a three-month advance of their current grant to support continuations of services and respond to the needs of domestic violence survivors, such as hotels, emergency supplies, transportation, food, technology supports and other related services.