Between Friends is a Chicagoland nonprofit agency dedicated to breaking the cycle of domestic violence. Through our 24-hour helpline, counseling, and legal assistance, we provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals and families in crisis, while educating communities as part of the movement to end domestic violence.
For the past 18 months, we’ve been working hard to ensure not only that we continue providing our services to clients throughout COVID-19, but also that we address their changing needs in this difficult time. Our counselors assist people affected by domestic violence to contend with the trauma of confinement with an abuser, with additional anxieties caused by the pandemic, and with financial challenges. Our court advocates help survivors to navigate the legal system and secure orders of protection.
Like many people during the pandemic, Between Friends clients have had an increased need for direct financial assistance. Meanwhile, our educational programs have never been so essential -- whether it’s the REACH teen dating violence awareness program in schools, or our Survivors for Economic Empowerment program.
One thing that remains true for all our client services, whether in-person or remote, is that we provide them free of charge. During difficult economic times for our clients, this has been more important than ever. And it is only possible because of the donations we receive.
To ensure we can continue to meet the needs of survivors, we’re aiming to raise $80,000 by the end of October (Domestic Violence Awareness Month) in our It Takes A Friend campaign. This is an ambitious goal, but it would have a huge impact on our ability to provide services to people who need them. We can only reach this goal with your help!