MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded a total of $214,500 to four agencies in north Alabama to continue providing services to domestic violence and sexual assault victims.
The grants will support the agencies as they serve victims in 11 counties.
“Domestic violence and sexual assault victims deserve access to professional assistance in a timely manner,” Gov. Ivey said. “I commend these agencies who always respond to victims that often have nowhere else to turn.”
Crisis Services of North Alabama Inc., based in Huntsville, is using $80,000 to serve victims in Madison, Jackson, Limestone and Morgan counties. The agency provides emergency shelter, forensic exams and advocacy services to victims and their families. Matching funds of $20,000 will supplement the grant.
One Place of the Shoals, based in Florence, is using $68,000 to provide free professional assistance to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse and elder abuse in Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Marion and Winston counties. The organization provides counseling, court accompaniment, legal advocacy and assistance with filing protection from abuse orders. Matching funds of $17,000 will supplement the grant.
Victim Services of Cullman, which serves victims in Cullman and Winston counties, is using $51,500 for its Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program. The program ensures that victims have immediate access to medical care and advocacy. Matching funds of $12,875 will supplement the grant.
Cramer Children’s Center in Florence is using $15,000 to assist its continued efforts to help child abuse victims and their families in Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Marion and Winston counties, while also helping to prosecute offenders. The center provides services including intervention, support and advocacy. Matching funds of $3,750 will supplement the grant.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is administering the grants from funds made available to the state from the U.S. Department of Justice.
“Gov. Ivey believes strongly that victims should continue to receive the services and help they require for recovery,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA’s partnerships with these organizations play a critical role in making sure victims get help quickly and from dedicated professionals.”
ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, victim programs, economic development, water resource management, energy conservation and recreation.
