SHAHEEN VISITS WOMEN’S SHELTER, MEETS WITH ADVOCATES AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

(Concord, N.H.)  - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) met with New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence leaders and allies and visited the New Beginnings shelter to discuss the critical services offered by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Shaheen, a long-time and vocal supporter of VAWA, has called on the House of Representatives to swiftly reauthorize VAWA and send to the President for his signature.

“Domestic violence plagues far too many women and children. It’s a complex problem whose solution isn’t easy but members of Congress have an opportunity and obligation to help millions of domestic violence victims,” Shaheen said. “The advocates for victims of domestic violence I met with today are helping women and children rebuild shattered lives. They deliver critical needs like counseling and a safe place to sleep.”

Shaheen, who was inducted into the Coalition's Hall of Fame, joined Coalition staff in Concord, the Concord Police Chief, Mayor Bouley and other domestic violence advocates about the importance of VAWA reauthorization. She also met with staff, board and other invited guests today at the New Beginnings shelter in Laconia, which provides services for people whose lives have been affected by domestic and sexual violence.

“VAWA is a proven tool in supporting victims, social service providers and law enforcement officials, and today’s meetings underscore that the House cannot pass this critical, bipartisan legislation soon enough,” Shaheen said.

“Last year the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence was able to provide shelter for 630 people who needed a place to sleep, but they had to turn away 721 because they didn’t have room. Even with VAWA, they had to turn away more than they could help. All in Congress must be up to the task, and do whatever it takes to begin the healing, which starts with reauthorizing VAWA.”