State awards grants to help domestic violence victims in our area

The State of Alabama is awarding more than $1.5 million in federal grants to local agencies to help victims of domestic violence and to prosecute suspects.

Gov. Kay Ivey announced the grants, with money coming from the U.S. Department of Justice.

“Victims of domestic violence and other forms of abuse deserve the support needed to overcome the mental and physical scars left by crimes committed against them,” Gov. Ivey said. “These agencies have a proven track record of holding abusers accountable for their crimes as well as helping those in need overcome their past and go on to lead healthy, productive lives.”

Here is a list of the local agencies getting grant money:

One Place Family Justice Center – $523,723

Based in Montgomery, One Place assists victims of abuse, including sexual assault, child abuse, domestic violence, trafficking, stalking and harassment. The agency serves victims in Autauga, Butler, Crenshaw, Dallas, Elmore, Lowndes, Montgomery, Perry and Wilcox counties.

Montgomery Area Family Violence Program – $645,458

Also known as the Family Sunshine Center, the nonprofit agency aids victims in Autauga, Butler, Chilton, Crenshaw, Elmore, Lowndes and Montgomery counties with shelter and other services. The center specializes in assistance to victims of domestic violence, harassment, elder and child abuse as well as identity theft and financial crimes.

Selma and Blackbelt Regional Abuse (SABRA) Sanctuary – $94,500

The Selma-based organization provides shelter, judicial assistance and advocacy, transportation and other services for victims in Dallas, Greene, Marengo, Perry, Sumter and Wilcox counties.

Domestic Violence Intervention Center – $149,423

The center, based in Opelika, provides safe shelter, case management assistance, counseling and other services for victims in Chambers, Lee, Macon, Randolph and Tallapoosa counties.

Rape Counselors of East Alabama – $124,112

The agency provides counseling, advocacy and other support services for victims of abuse in Chambers, Lee, Macon, Randolph, Russell, and Tallapoosa counties.

— Information from the Office of Governor Kay Ivey