The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved a motion proclaiming October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and advancing a comprehensive strategy to support survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence.
The motion, by Chair Pro Tem Hilda L. Solis and co-authored by Supervisor Janice Hahn, addresses what officials called a public health and safety crisis.
According to the 2025 Los Angeles Continuum of Care Point-in-Time Count, 42 percent of people experiencing homelessness reported a history of domestic or intimate partner violence, with 10 percent becoming unhoused as a direct result of fleeing abuse.
Among unaccompanied women, 60 percent disclosed such histories, with one in five reporting violence as the immediate cause of their homelessness. Despite this need, fewer than 1,000 domestic violence-specific interim housing beds are available countywide, while more than 4,400 unsheltered adults reported needing them.
"Domestic violence is not only a public health crisis, but also a public safety concern and a reflection of systemic failures that too often leave survivors without the support they need to heal," Solis said.
The motion directs multiple county departments to collaborate on strategies including assessing federal and state funding risks, exploring options for local sustainable funding, expanding culturally responsive emergency housing and launching workplace training programs.
Nationally, domestic violence costs more than $12 billion annually due to lost productivity, health care costs and legal services, according to the motion. Sixty-five percent of U.S. companies lack a formal policy to address domestic violence in the workplace.
The board also proclaimed Oct. 15, 2025, as Domestic Violence Providers Appreciation Day. County departments will report back within 120 days with findings and recommendations.
Edited by SMDP Staff