Yolo County, CA — Empower Yolo announces the temporary closure of its offices on Thursday, May 30, 2024 as staff and supporters join a crucial rally at the state capitol. This rally aims to address severe budget cuts in Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funding, which could result in a devastating reduction of over $800,000 for Empower Yolo.
“Although the one-day closure may cause some inconvenience to our clients, the potential long-term impacts of these budget cuts are far more concerning,” says Lynnette Irlmeier, Executive Director of Empower Yolo. “If these cuts are implemented, Empower Yolo will face reduced hours and longer wait times for essential services, severely affecting our ability to support those in need,” said Irlmeier.
This rally represents our final push to advocate for sustained funding from Governor Gavin Newsom and state leadership. Organizations dedicated to supporting survivors are confronting a 45% funding cut, posing a dire threat to the services we provide. Without intervention from the state of California, the consequences will be catastrophic:
Survivors will lack advocates to support them in hospitals.
Housing centers crucial for safety and recovery will be forced to close.
Homelessness will increase as resources diminish.
Legal assistance for survivors will dwindle.
Countless survivors will remain in abusive and life-threatening situations without help.
The implications of these cuts are stark: lives will be lost.
Empower Yolo urges all supporters and community members to recognize the critical nature of this issue. We must stand together to ensure that the essential services for survivors of crime and abuse remain available and robust.
For media inquiries, please contact: Lynnette Irlmeier, Executive Director, Empower Yolo; (530) 665-5312; [email protected].
About Empower Yolo: Empower Yolo is dedicated to providing comprehensive services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of abuse. Our mission is to promote safe, healthy, and resilient communities by offering vital resources and support to those in need. For more information visit empoweryolo.org.