BSAFE is an Individual Development Account (IDA) program for low-income survivors of domestic violence.

An IDA is a matched savings account that helps low-income individuals purchase assets. IDA participants make monthly deposits to establish a savings pattern. Participants' deposits are matched each month by the BSAFE program. The match funding comes from community members, organizations, and foundations.

Many women* stay in abusive relationships because they do not have economic resources such as savings or a job. Many also lack financial education. Because abusers are often economically abusive, victims are likely to be dependent on their abuser. If victims do not fully understand finances, they can fall prey to predatory lenders and remain trapped in the welfare system.

There are a combination of factors which make it hard to escape a constant cycle of hardship: poverty, a lack of financial education, and financial dependence. Montana Legal Services Association and Montana Credit Unions for Community Development developed BSAFE to help low-income survivors of domestic violence achieve economic independence, and in turn, a home free of violence.

*** If you are in danger, please call 911 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) ***

Please note that home computers can pose a safety risk. Abusers can track the websites you have visited, your email, and other computer activities. If you believe that your abuser may be tracking your computer usage, please read the Montana Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence's information on Computer Safety.

*Note: The terminology "she" or "her " will be used throughout this website to refer to domestic violence survivors. This choice of language reflects the fact that the overwhelming majority of domestic violence victims are women. This does not mean that there are not male victims, or that they should not receive the same supportive services. This should also not be used to exclude children or other victims in the household.