REPORT

DV-and-Childcare Briefing 2025

Abstract

Communities often respond to Domestic Violence with funds for shelter and victim services—from federal and local grants and philanthropy. Though those do much good, they can never fully meet the demand for services, given the size of the problem. The clear next step—addressing causes—has rarely been attempted, but it’s not rocket science: resolve the economic disadvantages many women face—often (but not solely) linked to care for children.

Economic disparities and the status and resource issues associated with those are the direct or indirect cause of much domestic violence. Many women stay in abuse because they can’t afford to leave, and they don’t want to risk homelessness for their kids. People are often vulnerable to violence at the hands of those they depend upon; and their vulnerability may make partners more likely to commit violence (which they may regret later). Children often witness it. Everybody loses.

Conclusion: In a time when federal funding for shelters is declining, expanded childcare services can allow women and their families to earn more, and thus avoid violence in the first place. And they can spur economic and social gains for all.