MONTGOMERY— Gov. Robert Bentley has awarded three grants totaling $94,462 to help the Crisis Center of Russell County offer free, professional assistance to victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault.
The grants will help the center maintain a 24-hour emergency hotline, shelter, counseling and weekly support groups for victims. The center also employs a part-time job specialist who helps victims find job training, prepare a resume and learn interview techniques.
The Crisis Center will conduct domestic violence and sexual violence prevention programs, and will recruit and train volunteer trainers.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Justice. ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, economic development, infrastructure upgrades, recreation, energy conservation, water resource management, job training and career development.
Bentley notified Stephen Cooper, president of the center’s board, that the grants had been approved.
In addition to the grants, the agency depends on local funding and contributions to provide its services.
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Contact: Russell Sellers, Mike Presley