“It’s not an overstatement to say that FAMLI leave saved my life.”
That’s from Kellie, a Coloradan and survivor who credits FAMLI coverage for helping her through her experience with domestic violence. In 2025 Kellie took the time to interview with FAMLI to share her story.
Each year, more than 12 million people in the U.S. experience physical violence, stalking, or psychological harm by a partner.
The ripple effects are profound: survivors face lost income, job instability, housing insecurity, and serious mental and physical health challenges. In fact, the CDC estimates that the lifetime economic cost of intimate-partner violence tops $3.6 trillion, with survivors bearing nearly 60% of that burden through lost wages, medical bills, and more.
In light of this, Colorado chose to become one of only six states in the country to include safe leave in our paid leave policies — so Coloradans navigating domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking can take time away from work to prioritize safety, recovery, and rebuilding their lives.
That choice has already paid off: in 2024, FAMLI ensured that 3,909 survivors could afford to take the time they needed to leave and heal from a dangerous situation.
Hear how FAMLI helped Kellie on the Family Journeys page.