MONTGOMERY— Gov. Robert Bentley has awarded grants totaling $405,380 to support a couple of nonprofit organizations that assist domestic violence and child abuse victims in several east Alabama counties.
Grants of $280,380 will help the Domestic Violence Intervention Center continue aiding domestic violence victims in Chambers, Lee, Macon, Randolph and Tallapoosa counties. With a $125,000 grant, Twin Cedars Youth and Family Services will continue assisting child abuse victims and their families in Lee and Macon counties.
“Access to professional assistance is a vital part of helping victims recover from abusive situations,” Bentley said. “The staff and volunteers of both organizations are providing such assistance to help victims rebuild their lives.”
Incorporated in 1980, the Domestic Violence Intervention Center offers a 24-hour crisis line, emergency shelter, support groups, counseling and other services to victims. Legal advocates are available to accompany victims to court and help them navigate the criminal justice system.
Twin Cedars assists child abuse victims throughout the investigative process. Specially trained staff members interview victims about the details of the abuse, which are recorded and used by law enforcement and other agencies to eliminate the need for victims to recount the abuse multiple times. The center also provides therapy services for victims and advocacy services for families affected by abuse.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. ADECA administers an array of programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, water resource management and recreation development.
“ADECA’s partnerships with the Domestic Violence Intervention Center, Twin Cedars and likeminded organizations throughout the state ensures that those victimized by abuse will have a safe place to turn in their time of need,” ADECA Director Jim Byard Jr. said.
Bentley informed Chippewa Thomas, president of the Domestic Violence Intervention Center’s board, and Beth Vaughan, president of Twin Cedars’ board, that he had approved the grants.
In addition to grant funds, both organizations depend on individual donations to ensure a full range of services remains available to victims.
Contact: Mike Presley, Jennifer Ardis