Gov. Robert Bentley has awarded more than $1.36 million to continue support and assistance to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in north Alabama.
Bentley awarded three grants totaling $939,584 to Crisis Services of North Alabama to provide free services for victims of family violence and sexual assault in Madison, Limestone, Marshall and Jackson counties. A $428,852 grant will help the National Children’s Advocacy Center offer support and mental health services for abused children and their families in Madison County.
“Providing immediate and specialized assistance is important to help victims overcome the trauma of abuse and start the recovery process,” Bentley said. “I commend these agencies and their staffs for the work they do.”
Crisis Services offers 24-hour counseling services for victims in person or by telephone and email. The agency also assists victims undergoing medical exams, helps them find temporary housing and refuge and obtain related services to overcome their ordeals.
In addition to grants, Crisis Services also receives quarterly income from a fee placed on marriage licenses and earmarked for domestic violence.
The National Children’s Advocacy Center is a non-profit agency that provides intervention and wellness services for abused children and their families. Since its creation in 1985, the center has served as a model for more than 900 children’s advocacy centers now operating in the United States and more than 25 countries.
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 and the state Domestic Violence Trust Fund.
“Our partnership with these and other agencies across the state ensure that victims have a place to seek refuge and support in difficult times,” ADECA Director Jim Byard Jr. said. “I join with Governor Bentley in commending these organizations and their staff for their dedication and attention.”
ADECA administers an array of programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, workforce development, water resource management and recreation development.
Both organizations also depend on private, individual donations to ensure a full range of services is available to victims.
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