MONTGOMERY — Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded more than $135,000 to increase awareness of domestic violence while helping people recognize the signs and symptoms of someone who is abused.
The programs, conducted by two agencies, cover 13 counties in south-central Alabama.
“Domestic violence has no boundaries and can occur anywhere and affect every segment of society,” Gov. Ivey said. “I am thankful for these agencies that care for the victims and help us to recognize those people who might be silently seeking help.”
Gov. Ivey awarded the following grants:
The Montgomery Area Family Violence Program Inc. ($110,575) – The agency, also known as the Family Sunshine Center, will use the funds to increase community awareness through numerous outreach and education avenues. The agency, which also offers shelter and other services for victims, provides its services in Montgomery, Autauga, Butler, Chilton, Crenshaw, Elmore and Lowndes counties.
SABRA Sanctuary ($24,834) – The Selma-based agency will provide community outreach and school education programs in Dallas, Greene, Marengo, Perry, Sumter and Wilcox counties.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available to the state from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. While the grants provide an important resource to the service agencies, they still rely heavily on locally generated donations to operate.
“Gov. Ivey and ADECA are committed to helping victims of domestic violence and bringing awareness of the devastation it causes individuals and families,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said.
ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, victim programs, economic development, water resource management, energy conservation and recreation.
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