The Texas Council on Family Violence researches, to the best of its ability, the stories of Texas women who were killed by their intimate partner. Details are gathered from various sources such as Texas law enforcement agencies, media reports and the Texas Department of Public Safety. Data for 2008 has been compiled and according to the Texas Department of Public Safety, 136 women were killed by an intimate partner.  This figure represents 39 percent of all women murdered in Texas. This statistic does not take into consideration other victims of domestic violence where the relationship between victim and offender was undetermined at time of death. The following PDF list reflects the most accurate information available to TCFV at the time of compilation.

• 2008 List of Women Killed
• 2008 Women Killed Statistics
• State Map of Women Killed in 2008
• 2008 Family Violence Program Statistics
• More DVAM Resources

“Become Inspired—you never know when someone will become inspired by your courage to make a difference.”

In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I would like to honor the amazing life-saving work being done on behalf of women, teens, children and men who are experiencing violence in their relationships. All across the nation domestic violence advocates, volunteers, friends, families, co-workers, and individuals are extending their hearts and hands to help those in extraordinarily dangerous circumstances from someone who claims to love them. I continue to be inspired by the dedication and commitment to end violence in our communities.

I am writing this piece to encourage all of you to find your passion and inspiration! To encourage you to use it to keep making a difference in the world. Many are called to make a difference as I am in my daily work but I had help getting here. Her name is Rochelle and she is my sister. Rochelle has been my inspiration working to end violence against women for the last 25 years. Rochelle (pictured second from the left with sisters Chris, Laurie and myself) has overcome many obstacles, an abusive marriage for eight years, which at its most violent she once felt like taking her own life to get free of the situation. She endured economic poverty which had her working three jobs as a result of her husband’s choice to drag her through an extended legal battle and bankruptcy, all the while being a wonderful mother to a young daughter. Continue Reading »

The Meadows Foundation has been recognized for generous contributions to domestic violence agencies by Senator Jane Nelson on behalf of the Senate of the State of Texas. The Meadows Foundation has awarded a total of $364,000 since January in emergency grants to Texas domestic violence agencies, including $175,000 which will be used for the 24-hour National Domestic Violence Hotline (the Hotline) based in Austin.

“This generous donation comes at a time when the demand for services is increasing and many donors are scaling back philanthropic giving because of the depressed economy,” said Sheryl Cates, CEO of the Hotline. “It is a tribute to this organization that it has recognized and responded to a call for help so that vulnerable families will have somewhere to turn. Reports of an increased need for domestic violence shelters are being heard from many communities in Texas. We are grateful for the support of The Meadows Foundation; this donation is an outstanding example of corporate responsibility toward our communities.”

Pictured from left are Gloria Terry, President of the Texas Council on Family Violence (TCFV), Sheryl Cates, CEO of the National Domestic Violence Hotline (NDVH) and TCFV, Senator Jane Nelson, Bruce Esterline, Meadows Foundation Vice President for Grants and Cindy Patrick, Meadows Foundation Senior Program Officer.

Over the last five years, The Meadows Foundation has contributed approximately $3.1 million to 29 domestic violence service providers throughout Texas. “We recognize that domestic violence agencies are struggling this year to serve as many families as possible, even in the face of budget and staff reductions,” said Esterline. “Because of the great need, our foundation will continue to review requests for emergency funding throughout 2009.”

Texas Council on Family Violence (TCFV) is providing this Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) resource kit to assist domestic violence programs statewide with DVAM activity planning. The documents and graphics may be reproduced and amended to fit local needs.

The Women Killed List will be made available during the last week in September. If you have any questions, please contact TCFV at 512.79.1133.