Program launched to combat domestic violence in Lake County

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services on Wednesday launched a partnership with domestic violence agencies and community organizations to work with those who experience violence in their homes in Lake and Winnebago counties.

Under the Domestic Violence Co-Location Program, advocates employed by a Safe Place and Remedies Renewing Lives will be housed in DCFS field offices in Waukegan and Rockford to improve the safety, permanency and well-being of families experiencing domestic violence and are involved with the child welfare system.

Representatives from DCFS and several organizations, including the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence, joined for the announcement at the Lake County Juvenile Court Depke Center near Vernon Hills. The program is funded by a federal grant administered by Futures Without Violence.

Marc Smith, acting director of DCFS, said in a news release that the partnership will work to reduce the risk of violence in families, enhance the safety of child and adult survivors of domestic violence, increase accountability of offenders and improve outcomes for children and families.

"Collaboration is key to protecting children and supporting families," he said.