The Barren River Area Safe Space, Inc. hosts a free tax preparation site at their shelter and at BRANCHES of the Barren, a walk-in office for survivors of domestic violence.

In an effort to enhance self-sufficiency and economic empowerment financial literacy groups are held monthly for residential and non-residential clients.

Economic safety planning is incorporated into work with shelter residents, as well as housing clients.

The agency facilitates an Individual Development Account (IDA) program for battered women.  This program is supported through federal and state funds so that participants open a specialized savings account with a two to one match.  Funds may be used for home purchase, higher education or small business ventures.

Advocates assist participants with credit coaching and repair, access to micro-loans through the Allstate Foundation, and referrals to permanent housing.  The agency operates PEACE Housing, (Permanency, Empowerment and Change Equals Housing), a service-enriched permanent housing program for formerly homeless survivors of domestic violence.  For more information call 270-781-9334.

Flow Chart: The Intersection of Domestic Violence & Economic Justice

"Economic Justice & Asset Building: Lessons Learned" ~ Lee Alcott, The Justice Line Volume 3, Issue 1-Summer 2009

"Integrating Asset Building Strategies into Domestic Violence Strategies" ~ Andrea Kovach, Clearninghouse Review: Volume 43, Numbers 3-4; July-August 2009