Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded a $76,631 grant to support a nonprofit agency that provides aid specifically tailored to the needs of domestic violence victims whose families originate from other countries.
The grant will help Huntsville-based AshaKiran continue operating a crisis hotline, shelter and other services for victims. Volunteers formed the organization in 2006 to offer culturally specific social services and support to South Asian ethnic minorities who, according to organization officials, tend not to utilize social services due to cultural and language barriers. AshaKiran has since expanded services to assist victims with origins in China, Africa, the Middle East, South America and Europe.
“Domestic violence victims deserve caring and professional assistance when escaping abusive situations no matter their family background,” Ivey said. “I commend AshaKiran for its efforts to make culturally sensitive resources available to those who may not traditionally utilize social services due to cultural or language barriers.”
The organization also offers community outreach events and works with the state’s domestic violence shelters and sexual assault assistance programs to help them address language and cultural issues that are sometimes a barrier to serving victims.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grant from funds made available by the U.S. Justice Department. ADECA administers an array of programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, water resource management and recreation development.
“The services provided at shelters like AshaKiran are a vital part of the recovery process for those who have suffered from abuse,” ADECA Director Jim Byard Jr said. “Our partnership with this organization is a way to reach victims who may have cultural or language barriers and provide them with access to these important services.” Ivey notified Delois Smith, chair of the organization’s board, that the grant has been approved.
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