MONTGOMERY— Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded grants totaling $117,236 to support three organizations as they continue providing services to domestic violence victims in 10 central Alabama counties.
“Domestic violence victims should have easy access to the services they need in a timely manner, regardless of their background,” Gov. Ivey said. “I commend the work of these organizations and their efforts to help those who need it most.”
A $71,228 grant will help The Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama to continue offering culturally specific services to victims of domestic violence in Blount, Jefferson and Shelby counties. Services include safety planning, case management, mental health counseling, support groups and court advocacy.
Safehouse of Shelby County is using funds of $31,037 to continue providing emergency shelter, advocacy, forensic exams and crisis intervention for victims in Chilton, Clay, Coosa and Shelby counties.
A $14,970 grant will enable 2nd Chance Inc. to continue providing training for professionals who serve victims in the criminal justice system. Those professionals include law enforcement officers, medical personnel, public housing staff, social workers, local public leaders, district attorneys’ office staff, county Department of Human Resources staff and other victim and social services providers. Training sessions will be available in Calhoun, Cleburne, Etowah and Talladega counties.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available to the state by the U.S. Justice Department.
“Gov. Ivey is focused on supporting organizations that provide direct assistance to domestic violence victims as well as providing proper training those who serve and assist victims,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA’s partnerships with these nonprofit groups ensure that victims have continued access to vital care and assistance.”
ADECA administers an array of programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, water resource management and recreation development.
Gov. Ivey notified Meredith Calhoun, Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama board chair; Susan Arvin, Safehouse of Shelby County board chair; and Mary Harrington, 2nd Chance Inc. board president, that the grants had been approved.
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Contact: Russell Sellers, Mike Presley