MONTGOMERY— Gov. Bob Riley has awarded $330,014 to help ensure that victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in north Alabama continue receiving support services.
Two grants totaling $185,971 will enable Safeplace Inc. in Florence to continue providing a 24-hour crisis line, counseling and safe housing to domestic violence victims. The nonprofit organization also coordinates violence prevention education in schools and conducts campaigns to increase awareness of services available to victims. Safeplace assists victims in Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Marion and Winston counties.
The Shoals Crisis Center Inc. is receiving a $77,872 grant to support its work on behalf of victims of sexual assault. Through the center’s Rape Response Program, victims can call a 24-hour crisis line and receive counseling, hospital accompaniment, legal advocacy and other services. Based in Florence, the organization serves Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale and Marion counties.
A $41,921 economic stimulus grant to Crisis Services of North Alabama in Huntsville will help the organization continue its services to victims of sexual assault and domestic violence in Jackson, Madison and Morgan counties. Services include safe and confidential shelter, a 24-hour crisis line, counseling, court advocacy and exams conducted by specially-trained nurses.
The Domestic Violence Crime Unit, part of the 25th judicial circuit district attorney’s office, is receiving a $24,250 grant to continue investigating and prosecuting domestic violence cases in Marion County.
“I am pleased to support these organizations which provide vital services to our neighbors who have been victimized,” said Riley. “While grants are important, providing services at no cost to victims also requires that generous Alabamians continue their support of nonprofit victim service groups.”
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available by the U.S. departments of Justice and Health and Human Services. Some funding was made possible by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
--30--
Contact: Josh Carples; Larry Childers
|