
Cynthia Ackerman, AllCare Vice President of Community Engagement and Government Programs says, “We understand that the services that WCST provides are viewed as a lifeline for women in need. Domestic violence crosses all socioeconomic strata. However, women in poverty have additional risk factors, such as; poor support systems, fewer education, attainment opportunities, inadequate housing and transportation, and less ability to earn adequate income. WCST has the experience, empathy, and skill set to be a solid, safe, and dependable resource for these women.”
AllCare CEO Doug Flow says that the mental and physical health problems resulting from domestic violence and sexual assault make it imperative for the medical community to support WCST. AllCare’s matching support grew from $3,000 in 2009 to $17,500 in 2013, and then to $30,000 in 2014. Why the steady and significant increases? “We know that early intervention saves lives but that takes funding to insure skilled, community-based staff and other resources are available at the local level to help those in need.” The Rise to End Violence annual campaign (formerly the 1000 Men Campaign) to involve men in raising awareness and resources for WCST began in 2007 with the Ten Men Ask Ten Men.