SPRINGFIELD — Behavioral Health Network Inc. (BHN) was awarded a $10,000 grant from PeoplesBank to be used for the Money School program, a financial independence initiative for survivors of domestic or sexual violence who are also recovering from addiction.
The Elizabeth Freeman Center’s Money School program is an award-winning, trauma-informed financial independence initiative designed to create long-term safety and economic security for survivors, according to a BHN press release.
“Much of our work at BHN has to do with supporting and engaging with people as they overcome obstacles and plan a better future for themselves,” said Kathy Wilson, president and CEO of BHN. “The Money School program has been particularly effective in helping women to take control of their finances, one of the most difficult challenges for anyone when navigating the long-term impact of domestic violence. We deeply appreciate the resources being provided by PeoplesBank in this vital program that is changing the lives of the women served.”
BHN has been providing behavioral health services to children and families in Western Massachusetts since 1938. It provides services that include integrated whole-health models, as well as traditional clinical and outpatient and therapeutic services, day treatment, crisis intervention and residential support. It includes the Northern Hope Center and Franklin Recovery Center on Federal Street on the former Lunt Silversmith property in Greenfield.
Participants in the Money School program are given individually-tailored financial and career mentoring, as well as advocacy and support for their substance use recovery and healing in the aftermath of domestic or sexual violence, the release states. The program helps survivors achieve and maintain safety, economic independence and well-being.
According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in four women report experiencing domestic violence. In addition to physical abuse, domestic violence survivors often experience financial duress, and almost half of domestic violence victims struggle with substance use disorders.
“Financial literacy is a skill that is lacking today in so many areas of society, so it is gratifying to see BHN addressing this issue with a vulnerable population,” said PeoplesBank Vice President of Marketing and Innovation Matthew Bannister. “We applaud BHN’s efforts in this area, and in so many other important areas, too. They provide great services to our communities.”