Over the past 10 years Congress has responded positively and effectively to help end domestic violence in our communities by funding domestic violence programs. The success of these programs has resulted in a growing demand for their life-saving services. There are three key funding sources that Congress may act on this session: The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), Family Violence Prevention Services Act (FVPSA) and the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA). Programs such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline, battered women's shelters, and trainings for police, prosecutors and court officials have all contributed to a decline in domestic violence since VAWA was first authorized in 1994. The first VAWA saved nearly $14.8 billion in net averted social costs. Full funding for all VAWA programs is a crucial investment in our communities, saving lives, money and the future of our nation. In the FY '05 Congressional Budget, FVPSA received $126.7 million, $ 48.3 million below the authorized level of $175 million. This funding provides core services including shelters, crisis hotlines, counseling and services for children affected by domestic violence. VOCA is a key non-taxpayer funding source for services that helps victims cope with the trauma and aftermath of violent crime and is capped at $650 million. Even combined with the other funding streams, this funding simply does not meet the need for emergency services. The President's Budget would eliminate the balance of this fund, destabilizing critical services for victims of all types of crime. Here in Multnomah County, Oregon, 703 women and 622 kids received safe shelter last year through the domestic violence network. The vast majority were able to successfully move on to safer housing away from their abusive partner as well as accomplish a variety of other goals to ensure long term safety for themselves and their children. Without full funding for VAWA, FVPSA and VOCA programs, women and children in Oregon and other states will not be able to access the services they need to escape from violence. The continued support of Congress is crucial to helping victims and their children find safety and build self-sufficiency.