In a recent government meeting, the Executive Director of the Albion Fellows Bacon Center highlighted the critical link between domestic violence and homelessness, revealing alarming statistics that underscore the urgency of the issue. It is estimated that 38% of domestic violence victims will eventually face homelessness, with domestic violence being the direct cause of over half of all homeless women, according to the Coalition for the Homeless. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ranks domestic violence as the third leading cause of homelessness among families.

In Evansville and Vanderburgh County, the local police department reported 2,109 domestic violence incidents in 2023, resulting in 641 arrests and numerous cases referred for further investigation. The Albion Center has provided nearly 8,000 nights of shelter to 170 adults and 125 children this year, a significant increase from the previous year. However, the center has been forced to turn away approximately 70 domestic violence victims each month due to full capacity.

To address immediate needs, the center has been temporarily housing individuals in hotels when they are in lethal danger, a measure that underscores the dire circumstances many victims face. The Executive Director expressed gratitude for the city council's consideration of a $30,000 funding allocation, which is vital for continuing their shelter services, particularly as they are one of the few shelters in the area that allows pets, a crucial factor for many victims deciding to leave abusive situations.

Additionally, the center has partnered with Full Bloom Counseling to provide free therapeutic services to clients, addressing not only the trauma of abuse but also potential histories of child sexual abuse and substance abuse issues. This holistic approach aims to equip individuals with the skills necessary to avoid future homelessness.

The meeting also addressed a recent fire incident at the shelter, which has temporarily displaced families into hotels. The Executive Director reported that staff would return to the site soon, with plans to transition families back into the shelter within the next two weeks. Currently, ten families are being accommodated in hotels due to the fire. The discussions highlighted the pressing need for continued support and funding to combat the intertwined issues of domestic violence and homelessness in the community.