HR1165 99TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR1165 LRB099 20825 MST 45571 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Each year approximately 2 million women are assaulted by male partners and an estimated 3.3 million children witness domestic abuse; and

WHEREAS, Domestic abuse has been linked to a wide range of societal problems for people coming from violent homes including a majority of violent criminals and homeless people; a large percentage of alcoholics and drug addicts; many juvenile delinquents; and a majority of welfare recipients; and

WHEREAS, The DuPage County Health Department identified domestic abuse, and child abuse/neglect as 2 of the top 5 major public health problems and DuPage crime data indicates that domestic abuse is the county's second most prevalent offense; and

WHEREAS, Family Shelter Service was founded in 1976 by DuPage families concerned about women and children made homeless by the violence in their lives; and

WHEREAS, During its 40-year tenure, Family Shelter Service has offered a safe haven for thousands of adults and children trapped by the violence in their homes; and

WHEREAS, Family Shelter Service educates communities on domestic abuse and how to prevent it; it operates a 24-hour hotline, provides shelter for those leaving abusive relationships, and runs a kids program to educate and counsel children about domestic abuse; and

WHEREAS, Family Shelter Service counselors and case workers have helped countless adults and children heal from the devastating effects of domestic abuse and move on to productive lives and safer futures; and

WHEREAS, Family Shelter Service has partnered with the DuPage County Judicial System to help traumatized clients navigate the complexities of the legal system when obtaining Orders of Protection and other services; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-NINTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we appreciate and applaud the essential value of this organization and its vital contribution in creating safer communities for all; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we recognize the 40th anniversary of Family Shelter Service in April of 2016; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the Family Shelter Service as an expression of our esteem and respect.