Written By: Betty Gentle, Senior Advocacy and Community Engagement Specialist at SOME, Inc.
Throughout October, and especially on this “Purple Thursday,” SOME proudly observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), reaffirming our commitment to supporting survivors and raising awareness of the deep connection between domestic violence and homelessness, both as a cause and a consequence. Domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness in D.C., creating a devastating cycle that affects individuals and families long-term. In 2024, an alarming 50% of adults in families experiencing homelessness in D.C. reported a history of domestic violence, with many identifying it as the direct cause of their housing instability.
By highlighting this intersection, we aim to provide resources, advocate for systemic change, and work toward a future where no one must choose between safety and shelter. Together, we can break the cycle and ensure that survivors have the support they need to rebuild their lives.
SOME’s Holistic Approach: Addressing Barriers for Survivors in the Homeless Continuum of Care
Survivors of domestic violence often face numerous systemic barriers when trying to escape abusive situations, such as lack of safe housing options, ongoing threats, financial insecurity, and trauma. Without adequate support, survivors may be forced to return to their abusers or continue cycling through homelessness. SOME understands that trauma from domestic violence can make it difficult for individuals to thrive, even after securing housing. That’s why our approach goes beyond providing housing; we ensure that survivors have access to crucial resources such as crisis intervention, safety planning, and counseling.
SOME offers specialized services for individuals affected by domestic violence, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking through our family housing, single adult housing, and senior services programs. Our partnerships with organizations like DC SAFE, House of Ruth, and My Sister’s Place enable our licensed clinical staff to stay updated on best practices and receive training on identifying signs of abuse. Our staff members are equipped to offer trauma-informed care, including safety planning, counseling, and referrals, helping survivors navigate their journey toward stability and healing.
A Call to Action: Advocating for Sustainable, Survivor-Centered Solutions
While SOME’s programming has made a significant impact, much more remains to be done to build a comprehensive, citywide system of care that truly meets the needs of survivors and their families. We and our community partners urgently advocate for increased local and federal funding for domestic violence service providers, more safe beds for those fleeing violence, and flexible financial support to address survivors’ immediate and long-term housing needs. We also call for a transformation of our homeless services continuum to be more trauma-informed, survivor-centered, and safe, because we know that ending homelessness is impossible if domestic violence persists. Every day, survivors are forced to choose between enduring abuse or facing homelessness—a choice no one should ever have to make.
This crisis goes beyond housing—it’s a matter of safety, dignity, and justice. By addressing these gaps, we can create a system that empowers survivors with the resources and protection they need for lasting safety and stability. The solution is within reach, but it requires urgent action from policymakers, service providers, and communities. Together, we can create a future where survivors no longer face violence or homelessness—where they can heal, rebuild, and thrive. The time to act is now.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or text “START” to 88788. You can also contact the DC Victim Services Hotline at 1-844-443-5732 or DC SAFE at (202) 506-2901 or info@dcsafe.org.
If you want to help transform the lives of survivors and all individuals impacted by homelessness and poverty, your support makes a difference. Click here to contribute to SOME’s vital work. You can also take action by joining our Advocacy Network and standing with us to advocate for systemic change and justice. Together, we can create safer, more supportive communities for everyone.