$1.3 million coming for victims of domestic violence, trafficking

on issues pertaining to domestic and family violence and providing protections for survivors, and enhancing these services remains a priority,” Gov. Ned Lamont said. “By collaborating with the incredible nonprofit partners we have in our state, including the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence, we are dedicated to ensuring that critical services are available. With practices like this in place, lives can be saved.”

Karen Jarmoc, the coalition’s chief executive officer, said the new funding will “allow us to house more survivors and children attempting to flee abusive relationships with a specialized program that meets their unique long-term needs.”

The program began accepting referrals in September 2019, with 59 referrals to date. Domestic violence and human trafficking victim advocates work with housing specialists to find safe homes. In some cases, victims are able to avoid living in a shelter, advocates said.

Housing specialists have worked to build relationships and create a network of landlords who understand the challenges faced by survivors and are willing to provide housing despite problems like bad credit, lack of income, or other barriers, they said.

The program’s goal is to house all referrals within 45 days. To date, the program has met the goal, averaging 36 days to house referrals, advocates said.

“I’m extremely happy that we are able to continue our work in providing safe stable housing to survivors of domestic abuse,” said Seila Mosquera-Bruno, commissioner of the state Department of Housing. “Many victims of domestic violence remain in their circumstances because, often times, they have nowhere else to go. With this new round of funding, we will continue to provide alternatives and ongoing support as they look towards a fresh start,” she said.