Zonta International is a global organization of individuals dedicated to building a better world for women and girls. The Zonta USA Advocacy Action Center is a tool for our members in the United States and other individuals who share our commitment to gender equality to take action to improve the lives of women and girls. With your help, we can make a difference..
The bipartisan Healing Partnerships for Survivors Act (H.R. 4510) was introduced by Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R- PA) and by Representative Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-NM) on July 17, 2025. It is also supported by more than 30 leading national and state organizations such as the National Network to End Domestic Violence, National Alliance to End Sexual Violence, Respect Together, and more. The bill would authorize US$30 million annually for five years to help community-based sexual assault programs provide culturally relevant, trauma-informed services for survivors. These services would include therapy, support groups, holistic healing, case management and more. There would be a focus on stronger coordination with behavioral health, substance use, and disability service providers.
The Healing Partnerships for Survivors Act fills gaps left by a currently historic demand of survivor services but lack of resources by:
- Building partnerships between community-based sexual assault programs and health systems like behavioral health and disability programs.
- Funding services like trauma therapy, support groups, and housing assistance.
- Expanding culturally appropriate, accessible care.
- Prioritizing survivor privacy and safety.
- Supporting workforce capacity and virtual service infrastructure.
“Sexual violence isn’t partisan. It affects everyone, red and blue bruises can traumatize the victims for a lifetime. Survivors deserve safety, support, and the chance to heal—and that starts with strong, local programs,” said Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández. “The Healing Partnerships for Survivors Act invests in the people and places that help survivors take their first steps toward healing. I’ve met so many brave survivors as Chair of the Democratic Women’s Caucus, and I carry their stories with me. This bipartisan bill is about making sure they never have to walk that road to recovery and healing alone.”
Please use our pre-drafted letters to urge your representatives to co-sponsor and support the Healing Partnerships for Survivors Act (H.R. 4510). If they have already sponsored or co-sponsored the bill, you can send a message of thanks.