b'Support for people escaping family violence. Our teams across Victoria and Tasmania offer a range of community services, helping people avoid crisis and supporting those who live lifeon the margins.Family violence is one of the leading causes We left with the clothes on our back. I hadof poverty for women in Australia. no idea how we were going to survive.With a surge in family violence cases since theOur team were able to provide Kerry with support start of the pandemic, we have seen an increase when she needed it most.in demand for services to support families. She was referred to a financial counsellor who We have joined with 9 other Uniting Networkprovided information and advice regarding her organisations across the country to run a programdebts, income and budgeting.providing financial assistance and wrap-aroundOur team helped Kerry access the basics like food support to people escaping family violence. and toiletries.The Escaping Violence Payment provides up toKerry has now found somewhere to live and is $5000 for anyone leaving a violent partner. working towards setting up a secure future for Payments can be used to help find safeherself and her child.accommodation, buy essential items and connectI dont think I would have been able to do this with support services to help people get back onwithout the help of Uniting, says Kerry.their feet.Financial insecurity is one of the main barriersIts great to have financial support for rent and stopping women from leaving a violent partner. I have been able to save money to buy a second-hand washing machine and lounge set.Kerry* is a single mother who escaped *This is a true story about a real person. Some details such as family violence. names have been changed to respect the wishes of the person featured. The photo accompanying this story is for illustrative As the abuse escalated, Kerry took out an order purposes only. It is not a photo of the person featured in this story.of protection and fled to safety with her child.It was terrifying, says Kerry.Find out more6 Supporter Newsletter Autumn 2022'