RALEIGH, NC – February 2, 2009 – The Allstate Foundation has awarded Interact with a
$30,000 grant to help fund a financial empowerment program for families impacted by violence and abuse. Interact is Wake County’s domestic violence and rape/sexual assault agency.

Families trying to heal from abuse will learn how to become financially self-sufficient using the Financial Empowerment Curriculum – a comprehensive package of financial tools and information, developed by the Allstate Foundation, said Julianna Sparks, chair of the Allstate Foundation’s Southeast Region. Allstate employees will train Interact’s counselors to teach the curriculum.

“The Financial Empowerment Curriculum is a key component of the Allstate Foundation’s program. It educates and trains advocates and Allstate volunteers to work with domestic violence victims as they move forward on the path to financial security,” Sparks said. “The Allstate Foundation is proud to announce a renewed partnership with Interact.”

The $30,000 grant will also fund Interact’s Client Services programs to assist families with their immediate needs and support them in trying to heal from abuse and establish violence-free homes. Client Services provides families with crisis counseling and case management, as well as access to wrap-around services provided by community partner agencies as part of Interact’s Family Empowerment Model.

“The Allstate Foundation grant will help provide local families with practical financial skills and quality counseling services needed to rebuild their lives free from violence,“ said Adam Hartzell, Interact’s executive director. “We are grateful to the Allstate Foundation for its continued commitment to providing support for families in Wake County.”

Victims of domestic violence may experience several forms of abuse, including financial abuse. Abusers may force their partner to:

• Live on a strict allowance 
• Stop working or lose a job 
• Account for all their money 
• Have limited or no access to the family vehicle  
• Receive inadequate financial support for the family 

About The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, the Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of the Allstate Corporation. The Allstate Foundation partners with non-profit organizations on community initiatives that promote “safe and vital communities”; “tolerance, inclusion, and diversity”; and “economic empowerment.”   The Allstate Foundation believes in the financial potential of every individual and in helping America's families achieve their American dream. For more information about The Allstate Foundation, visit www.allstate.com/foundation.