MONTGOMERY— Governor Robert Bentley has awarded grants totaling $439,187 to help ensure victims of sexual assault have access to free, professional assistance through a network of local agencies.
The Alabama Coalition Against Rape is using funds to support services and outreach efforts at its network of 14 crisis centers throughout the state. Services offered by the programs include advocates to accompany victims to hospitals and legal proceedings as well as counseling and a 24-hour crisis line. They also conduct training programs to help investigators and health care professionals understand and meet the special needs of elderly and disabled victims.
“Assaulting someone is a horrendous crime and victims should have access to professional help as quickly as possible,” Bentley said. “I commend the coalition and the local agencies for their hard work and dedication to help victims who are facing one of the most devastating moments of their life.”
A list of crisis centers and the areas they serve is available here: www.acar.org/crisis-centers.html.
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 resources management, job training and career development.
“The Alabama Coalition Against Rape and its member agencies provide vital help at a time when survivors of sexual assault need it the most,” ADECA Director Jim Byard Jr said. “Our partnership with the coalition helps ensure that this level of assistance will continue to be available throughout the state.”
Bentley informed Kimberly Love, Alabama Coalition Against Rape executive director, that the grants had been approve.
Media Release/ Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs
