20210203-04b: Recommendation - Hotel Safety Net for Survivors — original pdf

Recommendation

COMMISSION FOR WOMEN RECOMMENDATION 20210203-04b Date: February 3, 2021 Subject: Continued Funding for the Hotel Safety Net for Survivors Motioned By: Rebecca Austen Seconded By: Sarah Tober Recommendation to Council WHEREAS, the Commission for Women (“Commission”) of the City of Austin (“City”) serves as an advisory body that advocates for and inspires the City Council (“Council”) and City Manager to prioritize women’s quality of life, so that Austin becomes the most equitable city in the nation for women and girls; and WHEREAS, on April 17, 2020, the Commission passed Recommendation 20200417-03C: COVID-19 Responses for Women and Girls, including a recommendation to provide adequate safe shelter options and services that address the specific needs of women and children experiencing abuse, domestic violence, sexual violence, sex trafficking and homelessness, in partnership with organizations that provide these programs and services, and increase awareness of hotlines and related resources; and WHEREAS, on October 26, 2020 the Human Rights Commission passed Recommendation 20201026-002a: Continued Funding for the Hotel Safety Net for Survivors of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Human Trafficking; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission reinforces the recommendation of the Human Rights Commission to: • Continue funding the hotel safety net and resources for victims experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. The funding for this essential program going forward will nurture the trust and relationship between law enforcement, referring agencies, and victims. The program provides revenue to local hotels, which helps offset the losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. • Direct the City Manager to diversify the funding to organizations that support victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking, to address their unique needs. 1 Date of Approval: February 3, 2021 Record of the vote: Unanimous on a 6-0 vote, with three commissioners absent, and one district vacant. Attest: April E. Shaw April Shaw, Staff Liaison 2