The Liberation Fund
For a survivor of domestic abuse, just one expense – no matter the amount – can be a barrier when trying to move toward safety and freedom. Whether it’s a tank of gas, an unexpected house repair, or home security camera, the Liberation Fund provides Domestic Violence Resource Centers the ability to cover expenses that other funding sources cannot.
Founded in July 2020 by Bill and Patty Zimmerman, the Liberation Fund provides direct financial assistance for survivors. Every dollar reduces barriers to safety and security.
Our Liberation Fund has dispensed over $675,000 to nearly 1,400 survivors since its founding in 2020, covering expenses like security deposits, attorney fees, back-to-school supplies, car repairs, and more. On average, survivors who access the Liberation Fund ask for help to overcome obstacles that cost as little as $300 to resolve.
Surviving domestic abuse is expensive
Most people don’t realize domestic abuse is a financial matter. Providing survivors with financial assistance is a critical step toward countering the financial abuse and isolation that abusive people use to trap and isolate those they harm. Every dollar contributed to the Liberation Fund directly helps create a path toward a life free from violence for Maine survivors and their children. By donating to the fund, you can make an immediate difference, and no amount is too small to help change a life.
Liberation Fund Quotes
We want Maine to be a safe place for all those who are fortunate to call it home. We started the Liberation Fund to provide emergency resources that make an immediate difference in the lives of survivors and their children, but we can’t do this work alone. Alongside local advocates, we can build a vision for a safer, more just future for all people.
Receiving funding for a vehicle has been a gift of freedom. Being able to choose where I live, work, and travel freely will help with my independence, personal growth, and a brighter future without fear of being under an abuser’s control.
We paid for her to get her child's birth certificate replaced, which is a requirement for a housing voucher we are helping her to get.
Client recently left her abuser. She has a dog, but no family or friends in Maine. She wants to stay in Maine. She found a room to rent that would allow her dog in rural area where she found a part-time job. She needed funds to pay rent for a month to get herself adjusted.
We helped her find new housing and a voucher. She now needs help with a security deposit. This comes at a perfect time as she is due to have her baby in September. We also gave her a $200 Walmart card to help with the initial move-in needs such as cleaning supplies.
Repairing a window that was broken by a domestic violence offender … will support a survivor’s safety in a high-risk case. The window replacement will enable the survivor to remain in her home.
I'm reaching out to express my gratitude for the willingness to help cover my portion of the cost of the guardian ad litem... For a while I didn't feel worthy of receiving help...One day I too want to help women/children who have experienced abuse. I know I can make a difference. Again, thank you so very much for helping my daughter and I. It means a lot.
