The challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, including economic stress, have increased the risks and severity of domestic abuse. To support families whose safety is at risk, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) has launched the Living Independently Through Financial Empowerment (LIFE) program using emergency funding allocated to the state through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Under this program, domestic violence survivors can access pandemic relief funds to become financially empowered to live independent, violence-free lives. Eligible survivors will receive temporary financial assistance totaling $3,500 over a three-month period ($1,500 in month one and $1,000 in months two and three). To learn more, visit www.dcf.wisconsin.gov/life.
