Family violence has a long-term impact on housing stability—individuals and families who experience abuse are disproportionately represented among those experiencing homelessness and face a higher risk of losing housing due to the trauma of abuse.
Family violence is an all-too-common cause of homelessness. Nearly 38% of domestic violence survivors lose their housing at some point after fleeing abuse. Many people ask, “Why don’t they just leave?”—but the answer is complex. Domestic violence often strips survivors of financial stability, social support, self-confidence and a safe place to go.
Trauma affects most people experiencing homelessness—over 90% of homeless women and around 80% of homeless youth report experiencing severe physical or sexual abuse. The COVID-19 pandemic made these challenges worse, and in FY25, BEDS Plus served 652 survivors, a 70% increase from the year before.
BEDS provides housing and personalized support for domestic and family violence survivors, partnering with case managers and other service organizations to help survivors heal, regain stability, and move toward independent living.