Congress Passes Increased Funding for VAWA. It’s a Win for Survivors, But More Funding Is on the Line.
By Kiersten Stewart, VP Policy & Advocacy
January 21, 2026
At a time when we’ve become accustomed to deep cuts to federal programs that matter, we’re thrilled to be able to share some good news.
With your support, FUTURES and advocates across the country helped convince Congress to increase funding for Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) programs to $720 million this year.
These resources fund lifesaving domestic violence and sexual assault programs across the U.S. to meet the needs of victims and survivors, providing:
- Housing assistance
- Legal assistance
- Resources for underserved communities
- Support for programs that promote prevention, serve children and youth, and address the economic needs of survivors.
There’s also good news on the horizon for three of our other priorities. But your voice is needed at this moment to get the following over the finish line:
- The Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) is on track to receive a $5 million boost. FVPSA funds domestic violence shelters and services, rape and sexual abuse prevention, services for abused parents and children, and the technical assistance centers that make local programs even more effective. Congress is poised to continue funding the National Domestic Violence Hotline, rape and child sexual abuse prevention, and to restore funds for culturally specific services for sexual assault and domestic violence survivors.
- The Housing and Urban Development appropriation Congress is considering would increase homeless assistance grants; and provide $52 million specifically to support survivors of domestic violence.
- The House of Representatives has passed the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act. Now we’re working to get the Senate to pass it as well, to protect the nearly $2 billion per year this Fund provides to crime victims, including adult and child victims of domestic and sexual violence and child abuse.
Contact your members of Congress to urge them to pass these funding bills and support the needs of survivors.
Don’t know who your elected officials are? Look them up here, then call them through the Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121 to say:
- Thank you for increasing funding for Violence Against Women Act programs!
- The Family Violence Prevention and Services Act also is essential. Support the $5 million funding boost.
- Help make the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act law.
We’re working every day to continue the progress. And we’ll keep you posted in the weeks ahead.
Thank you for making these victories possible!
