In a significant move to support survivors of gender-based violence, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has announced an expansion of the Emergency Fund, allocating an additional $5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act. This funding boosts the total investment to $10 million, allowing the city to provide a one-time, unrestricted payment of $1,000 to eligible survivors. The initiative addresses the financial hardships and increased violence that many survivors have faced during the pandemic, highlighting the inadequacies of existing compensation programs that impose strict eligibility criteria. Mayor Johnson emphasized that the community safety strategy prioritizes the needs of violence survivors, reaffirming the city’s commitment to their healing and safety. The Emergency Fund will be administered by The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence, a partner organization, and is expected to assist approximately 600 survivors each month.

Interested survivors will need to schedule appointments with application specialists to access the funds. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance support through December 2026, ensuring that survivors can receive timely and unrestricted financial assistance. The city's proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to addressing the ongoing challenges faced by survivors of domestic and gender-based violence.