The role of pets in domestic violence and the URI PALS program
The Bronx Social Justice and Anti-Violence Forums
Innovative Client-Centered Services
Urban Resource Institute helps transform the lives of domestic violence survivors and homeless families, with a focus on communities of color and other vulnerable populations. We have deepened our impact and become the largest provider of domestic violence shelter services in the U.S. Our holistic approach encompasses innovative prevention and intervention programs and direct services.
Learn more about the URI Vision, Mission and Values.
Happy Pride Month!
URI joins the LGBTQIA+ community and everyone in celebrating and embracing true self identity. We’re committed to a culture of inclusivity among our clients and staff, and delivering safety, shelter and services to all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Click to read the statement by URI CEO Nat Fields on “Pride & Jubilation.”
Keeping Survivors & Pets Together
Imagine the agony of having to leave a beloved pet behind to flee domestic abuse. Thanks to our PALS program, survivors don’t have to choose between their pets or safety. The short film “When I Close My Eyes” brings to life one family's experience from the trauma of domestic violence into the PALS program and a new life of safety and healing with their dog Bennie. Click here to watch.
Abusive Partner Intervention Program
We believe the key to ending domestic violence is prevention. Through our Abusive Partner Intervention Program (APIP) we provide perpetrators of abuse with the support, tools and resources needed to develop healthier habits and change their lives for the better. Discover more about APIP and read the recent brief on the program here.
Safety Planning During COVID-19
For victims of domestic violence, stay-at-home orders can mean increased isolation from support networks and more time alone with abusers. We understand the challenges victims are facing, and offer some tips that may foster safety during this uncertain time.
Here In Times Of Crisis
On any given day in New York City, victims of domestic violence face difficult challenges to find safe, secure housing. Urban Resource Institute (URI)’s housing options and programs assist individuals and families – including pets – by respecting their rights to make informed choices and reducing barriers to shelter and safety. Using innovation to solve complex issues, URI helps survivors heal and gain the resources they need to live healthy and independent lives.
40,000
people can be served by URI programs each year
91%
of URI revenue is spent on programs
3%
of US domestic violence shelters allow victims to live together with their pets
Client-Centered Services
We provide quality, compassionate and innovative services to victims of domestic abuse and other vulnerable populations so that they may lead the safest and fullest lives possible.
Domestic Violence
We offer innovative and client-centered programs for survivors of domestic violence.
Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
We offer a variety of individualized treatment and care programs, including 24-hour group residences.
Homeless Families
We offer safe and secure temporary housing and supportive services.
Economic Empowerment Center
Our programs help survivors of domestic violence become self-sufficient and recover from economic abuse.
Pets Are No Longer A Barrier To Shelter
Victims of domestic violence with pets face difficult choices to save their lives. Do they flee with their children and leave their pet behind? Do they place their pet with a rescue organization and hope for the best? Do they stay and try to keep their family intact despite abuse? Or is there a better way?
Very few shelters accept domestic violence victims with pets. URI has designed some shelters just for this purpose. The PALS (People and Animals Living Safely) program can mean the difference between staying in an abusive situation and having options that allow for a victim to gain independence and hope.
PALS removes barriers to entry by providing accommodations for co-living with pets of any species.
Our Holistic Approach
We offer pet-ready apartments and services throughout New York City
They allow families and pets to live and heal together in the same secure space.
Victims are provided a full range of complementary wellness services:
- Safety Planning
- Case Management
- Counseling
- Specialized pet care
- Veterinarians and animal behavioral specialists
- Economic empowerment
- Childcare services
- Educational enhancement
- Nutrition
- Financial literacy
Our aim is to break the cycle of violence, homelessness, and poverty fostering independence and hope.
In Their Own Words
I felt like I was holding my breath, and when we got in the PALS program, I felt like I could exhale. It was a safe space where I could finally feel.
Hope
Support URI Programs
URI relies on financial support from donors like you to help families in crisis. Your donation ensures that individuals, families and their pets can escape abuse, safely heal and gain the resources needed to rebuild their lives.
Any amount can make a big difference.
Often leaving abusive situations with just the clothes on their back, domestic violence victims are starting over from square one and in need of everything from safe, secure housing to school clothes to specialized pet care from animal specialists.
$25
can provide emergency food for victims entering shelter.
$50
can provide educational materials for children in shelter.
$75
can provide behavior assessment and training for a dog suffering from trauma
$150
can provide access to therapeutic intervention for children who witness incidents of abuse.
$500
can provide startup items for domestic violence victims as they move to permanent housing.