MONTGOMERY — Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded two grants totaling $57,000 to increase awareness of domestic violence in more than a dozen counties across south-central Alabama while ensuring that victims receive help.
The grants, which supplement previous awards from the governor, will be distributed to two agencies based in Montgomery County.
“Domestic violence is a horrendous crime that knows no geographic or economic boundaries,” 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. ($43,000) – 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, Dallas, Elmore, Lowndes, Perry and Wilcox counties.
One Place Family Justice Center in Montgomery ($14,000) - The agency provides multiple free services relating to domestic violence and sexual abuse for victims in Montgomery, Autauga, Butler, Crenshaw, Dallas, Elmore, Lowndes, Perry 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 Justice. 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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