The Western New York Women's Foundation says the COVID-19 pandemic is especially disrupting the lives of women, and "bringing to the forefront the gender inequalities that impact women's lives every day." The Foundation and other advocacy groups have issued a call to Governor Cuomo and other state leaders to recognize these inequalities, as they decide issues like paid sick leave and accessible childcare. WBFO's Marian Hetherly talked about this with Corey Fabian-Barrett, Director of External Affairs for the Western New York Women's Foundation.
Because of coronavirus, the foundation's "Pathways to Progress Speakers Series" will be held bywebinar on April 3. It will be 9 a.m.-10 a.m. on the topic of burnout and self-care during these difficult times. Below is the letter women's advocacy leaders sent to state leaders regarding the urgent need for child care during the pandemic.
For victims of domestic violence, the Family Justice Center wants residents to know that it is still operating, although remotely. Center CEO Mary Murphy said they have suspended in-person services, under the direction of New York State and all locations are closed. However, safety planning, access to legal support, and other limited services are available by way of our phone hotline, 716-558-7233, and website chat-box at www.fjcsafe.org.
"When survivors are forced to stay quarantined in the home or in close proximity to their abuser, it can create situations where their safety is compromised," said Murphy. "In a time where companies are encouraging that their employees work remotely and the CDC is encouraging “social distancing,” an abuser may take advantage of this national health concern to exert control over a victim. Therefore, it is vital that the FJC and partner agencies continue to provide the critical and life-saving services to those affected, as best we can."
Letter to Governor - 3-15-2... by Marian on Scribd
