July 2006 Redmond Business

Higher Incomes Are Not a Refuge
by Pam Mauk

We have two messages we give commonly.

One: the Eastside is very diverse, and poverty is very much a part of our community.

Two  (and message-wise, a bit conversely): social services are not just for the poor.  People of all income levels utilize community supports such as those on the Family Resource Center campus.

A case in point: domestic violence, which impacts people of all cultures, all ethnicities and all income levels.

We recall one Eastside woman with two young kids who visited our door week after week in tears, unable to find a safe place to live despite abuse by a husband.

Recently the ostensibly wealthy wife of a professional sought help, terrified at any moment that her husband was stalking her. Days later, the scenario was repeated with a different mother experiencing violence and control at home.  For these women, refuge was found with a great deal of perseverance.

As awareness rises, so does the need for services and supports. Eastside Domestic Violence Program (EDVP), which offers safe housing, a crisis line, support groups and community education, tells us they must now turn away 19 of every 20 women who seek shelter with them.

A recent Group Health Cooperative study showed that domestic violence rate for women in King County is nearly twice that found in national studies (44% had experienced at least one incident). And interestingly, their study pool included primarily white, higher educated and employed women.

Most victims are women like those of you reading Redmond Business and me. Women who belong to chambers of commerce.  Women who operate businesses in Redmond.

It’s true. People of all income levels utilize health and human services.  With your care and support of community services, they may be available for everyone when they need the help.

Pam Mauk is executive director of Family Resource Center. For more information on the Center, call 869-6699.  (For information and referral to community services, call 211. The EDVP hotline is 425-746-1940.)

Return to Press Room

Send This Page
To A Friend

[Home] [Overview] [Our Campaign] [Agencies] [FRC Association] [Maps & Directions] [News in brief]

[Volunteer Fair] [First Ten Years] [Press Room] [FAQs] [Volunteer] [Board of Directors] [Links] [Donate on-line]