PHOENIX — October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and Governor Katie Hobbs says the federal shutdown could have devastating consequences for survivors in Arizona.
Speaking at Sojourner Center in Phoenix, the governor warned that critical funding for shelters and support services is at risk, leaving families in dangerous situations with fewer places to turn.
The governor sat down with ABC15 Mornings Anchor Kaley O'Kelley for an exclusive interview to answer questions from our viewers.
Angela from Glendale wrote: “I am worried right now about shelters closing if these federal dollars do disappear. What happens to women and children if these doors do shut?”
Governor Hobbs said she shares that concern.
“I am very worried too,” Hobbs told O’Kelley. “Shelters don’t just provide a roof and food. They help coordinate services, get people back on their feet, and connect them with other resources in the community. But we rely on these federal funds, and the state does not have the capacity to backfill. I’m afraid it’s going to be a really hard time.”
Jose from Mesa also reached out to ABC15. His cousin was killed in a domestic violence homicide last year. He asked whether survivors are at greater risk without stronger funding.
“We’ve come so far in working to address the causes of domestic violence and help people with safety planning,” Hobbs said. “But the less resources we have for law enforcement, services, and victims, the more risk we’re going to have. And that is a very real concern.”
For Hobbs, the issue is also personal. She worked at Sojourner Center years ago, advocating for survivors.
“This is the issue that first got me into politics,” Hobbs said. “Coming back here feels like coming home.”
For families forced to run for their lives, shelters like Sojourner Center continue to serve as safe havens. Gov. Hobbs says it’s essential that Arizona maintain and strengthen funding for these critical services.
One of the most recent efforts to help survivors came when Hobbs signed Senate Bill 1371, requiring law enforcement agencies to provide domestic violence victims with free copies of their police reports and recordings.
Those records are crucial for survivors seeking protective orders and other legal safeguards.
Advocates say this change can save lives, especially for people running away from dangerous living situations without access to money or personal documents.
If you or someone you love needs help, life-changing resources are available, including:
- Sojourner Center’s 24/7 Crisis Line: (602) 244-0089
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence:
(602) 279-2900
info@acesdv.org
