When we think about the causes of homelessness, economic hardship, lack of affordable housing, and mental health challenges often come to mind. But for many individuals and families, homelessness is deeply intertwined with a painful and often hidden reality: interpersonal violence. Understanding this connection is crucial to supporting those who have experienced it and helping them rebuild their lives.
What Is Interpersonal Violence?
Interpersonal violence (IPV) refers to any intentional act of harm inflicted by one person upon another within a personal relationship. It includes physical, emotional, psychological, or sexual abuse, as well as financial control and coercion. While the term "domestic violence" traditionally describes abuse occurring within a household—often between intimate partners—interpersonal violence is broader. It encompasses abuse that occurs outside the home, such as between friends, acquaintances, or even colleagues, expanding our understanding of who may be impacted and in what contexts.
The Connection Between IPV and Homelessness
For survivors of interpersonal violence, escaping an abusive situation often means leaving behind everything familiar—homes, jobs, and social networks. In many cases, survivors flee with little more than the clothes on their backs, making it difficult to secure safe housing or access basic resources. Without a stable place to land, many find themselves teetering on the edge of homelessness or falling into it entirely.
Those experiencing homelessness are also at greater risk of interpersonal violence, making it especially important to support this intersectional population.
Interpersonal violence is not just a personal crisis—it is a societal issue with far-reaching consequences. Survivors often face compounded challenges, such as trauma, legal barriers, and financial instability, making it harder to recover and rebuild. For families, the impact on children is profound, affecting their emotional well-being, education, and long-term stability.
Why Supporting Survivors of IPV Matters
Supporting individuals and families who have experienced interpersonal violence is critical to breaking this cycle of instability. Without intervention and resources, survivors remain vulnerable to chronic homelessness, further victimization, and long-term trauma. Programs that provide immediate assistance, such as housing, vital documents, and household necessities, are lifelines for those trying to rebuild after IPV.
At Wings Advocacy, we see this connection firsthand. Around one-third of the households we serve through our Welcome Home program have experienced interpersonal violence at some point in their lives. For these families, moving into safe housing is only the first step. Stabilizing their new environment with basic necessities like beds, bedding, and household supplies helps create a foundation for healing and hope.
Our work would not be possible without the support of our dedicated partners who refer clients rebuilding their lives after interpersonal violence. Together, we provide not just tangible goods but also a message of hope and solidarity for those starting over.
A Community Effort
By addressing the intersection of homelessness and interpersonal violence, we’re helping to create brighter futures for some of our community’s most vulnerable individuals. Together, we can ensure that survivors of interpersonal violence have the support they need to rebuild their lives with dignity and security.
If you’d like to join us in supporting survivors, consider donating to Wings Advocacy or volunteering your time. Every contribution helps us continue this vital work.
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