MONTGOMERY— Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded a $112,511 grant to an organization that assists Alabamians who are victims of drunken drivers.
The grant will help Alabama Mothers Against Drunk Driving provide victim services including court accompaniment and assistance in filing for victims’ compensation. The organization’s Alabama office also helps those who have lost loved ones in crashes caused by alcohol-impaired drivers.
“Victims of drunken drivers and their families often face a long road to recovery,” Ivey said. “I commend MADD for offering programs that guide victims through the recovery process and help families deal with tragic circumstances.”
MADD provides guidance and support to victims throughout the criminal justice process. The organization operates a crisis hotline for victims, offers individual and group counseling and helps victims secure other needed services.
The organization educates the public about the dangers of drinking and driving and works to prevent underage drinking. Presentations are conducted at schools, churches and other community meeting places.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grant from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Justice.
“Drunken drivers often leave a trail of tragedy in the wake of their foolish decisions. Fortunately, MADD is there to help victims and family members pick up the pieces and begin recovering,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to join Gov. Ivey in supporting the work that this organization performs to assist Alabamians at a time they need it the most.”
ADECA administers an array of programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, water resource management and recreation development.
Contact: Mike Presley or Jennifer Ardis Elmore