Blagojevich announces $22,900 in funding for Rainbow House

CHICAGO - Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today provided $22,900 in funding to Rainbow House for work on the organization's Residential Services Program facility in Chicago.  This is the final installment on a $50,000 grant for the project.

 

"I'm pleased we are able to award these funds in order to improve the physical conditions of this building which will improve the environment for the women and children who seek shelter at this facility," said Governor Blagojevich.

 

Rainbow House provides intervention and prevention domestic violence services to Chicago area residents through a series of five programs in the Lawndale, Little Village and Beverly/Morgan Park neighborhoods of Chicago.  Repairs and improvements to the 42-bed shelter include new windows and kitchen renovations.

 

In FY 2003, Rainbow House delivered services to more women and children than ever before. The agency's 24-Hour Crisis Line responded to 2,098 calls from women experiencing domestic abuse and the emergency shelter provided more than 13,000 days of shelter and services to 304 women and 211 children.

 

"I want to thank the Governor for recognizing the important role that Rainbow House plays in safeguarding these victims," said State Senator Antonio Munoz. "Often times, Rainbow House is the last refuge available for these women and children. In our efforts to reduce domestic violence in the Latino community and across Illinois, it becomes all the more important that we use our resources to support the services provided by community organizations like Rainbow House. These dollars will do just that by providing updated facilities for use by the residents and staff."