MONTGOMERY—Domestic violence victims in Baldwin, Mobile and Washington counties will continue to have assistance navigating the criminal justice system thanks in part to grants awarded by Gov. Robert Bentley.
Bentley awarded grants of $25,000 to the Baldwin County Family Violence Project and $24,637 to Penelope House Inc. for programs that assist victims involved in legal proceedings related to abuse. The Family Violence Project’s Lighthouse Court Advocacy Program aids victims in Baldwin County, and Penelope House’s Court Advocacy Program assists victims in Mobile and Washington counties.
“Advocates provide professional, compassionate assistance to victims, many of whom are involved in the criminal justice system for the first time,” Bentley said. “I commend these programs for assisting victims at a time when they need it most.”
The advocates for both programs accompany victims to court sessions and, if requested, assist victims in obtaining court orders to protect them from their abusers. Advocates also help victims obtain assistance offered at other community agencies.
Other services offered by both organizations include an emergency shelter for victims and their children and support groups.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available by the U.S. Justice Department.
Bentley notified Sherry Dewberry, president of the Baldwin County Family Violence Project’s board, and Tonie Ann Coumanis Torrans, executive director of Penelope House, that the grants were approved.
In addition to grant funds, both organizations depend on private donations to ensure a full range of assistance remains available to victims.
Contact: Mike Presley, Larry Childers