Mayor Brandon Johnson has announced a new initiative aimed at aiding survivors of gender-based violence within the city housing system in Chicago. The Short-term Assistance for Emergency (SAFE) Transfer Pilot will allow those affected to access safer housing alternatives. The project specifically targets residents of the Department of Housing (DOH) federally funded multifamily properties who face barriers in securing safer living arrangements.
"Everyone deserves to feel safe in their home," stated Mayor Johnson. He described the SAFE Transfer Pilot as a method to assure survivors they are supported by the city. He stressed that violence should have no place in Chicago, maintaining that the project aligns with his People’s Plan for Community Safety, which aims to address acute violence.
In 2023, the city received 14,823 calls to the Domestic Violence Hotline, highlighting the ongoing issue of domestic violence. The SAFE program is designed to be a responsive system that offers temporary emergency housing and options for permanent relocation. This initiative is part of the increased protections under the 2022 reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).
Department of Housing Commissioner Lissette Castañeda remarked, "Housing is more than a roof over someone’s head—it’s the foundation of stability and security." She emphasized the program's focus on providing safety and dignity to survivors.
The pilot program will initiate contact with the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline, which connects with Family Rescue to provide trauma-informed support and facilitate housing transfers. Alderwoman Nicole Lee voiced her support for the plan, asserting that secure housing is crucial for victims to break the cycle of violence.
Eligible residents can receive temporary housing for up to 60 days along with comprehensive case management and emergency housing services offered by Family Rescue. Alderwoman Jeanette B. Taylor highlighted the significance of the program, saying it provides a critical choice for families facing difficult situations.
The SAFE Transfer Pilot also involves coordination with The Network for the hotline operation and educational programs on VAWA compliance. Family Rescue's CEO, Joyce M. Coffee, expressed the program's importance in ensuring that survivors no longer have to choose between housing and safety.
This initiative is part of Mayor Johnson’s broader commitment to establish Chicago as a leader in equity-driven and survivor-centered housing policies. By including philanthropy and community support, SAFE aims to set a precedent in the housing system for prioritizing the safety and dignity of survivors.