MONTGOMERY— Support services for west Alabama domestic violence victims are getting a boost from a $20,540 economic stimulus grant awarded by Gov. Bob Riley. The grant supplements a previous award of $100,289 announced last fall.

Harriet’s House in Demopolis will use the grant to for services to victims in Choctaw, Clarke, Greene, Marengo and Sumter counties.

“Professional, compassionate care is essential in helping victims of domestic violence overcome abuse and remain safe,” said Riley. “I commend the staff of Harriet’s House for their service to victims.”

The organization has been serving west Alabama since 1997 offering emergency shelter, a 24-hour crisis line, referral services, advocacy and counseling at no cost to the victim.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grant from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Justice as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Riley notified Charlotte Webb, chairwoman of the organization’s board of directors, that the grant had been approved. Matching funds of $5,136 will supplement the award.        

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Contact: Josh Carples; Larry Childers