Riley awards funds to battle domestic violence

12-09-2004

Gov. Bob Riley has awarded a total of $976,761 to battle domestic violence and aid victims in Cleburne and surrounding counties. Of the total, $882.893 will ensure that services designed to prevent domestic violence and assist victims is accessible to residents in 33 rural counties including Cleburne. The grant to the Alabama Coalition Against Violence will make certain that residents in rural counties receive the same services offered in other areas of the state. “Domestic abuse is not limited by geography,” Riley said. “It is as likely to occur in rural areas as it is in urban centers of the state. I commend the Alabama Coalition Against Violence for providing this service to rural residents.” Also, of the total awarded, $93,868 went to Second Chance, a non-profit organization in Anniston, to continue services for victims of domestic violence. The organization provides crisis intervention and services to victims through its 18-bed emergency shelter, the Joy Kathryn Courtney House. Victims also are offered counseling, support groups, a 24-hour crisis line and assistance with court proceedings. In 2003, 73 adults and 44 children were provided emergency shelter and 229 calls to the hotline were answered. The grants will be used to support the shelter and hotline, increase public knowledge about domestic violence, recruit and train volunteers, and refer victims to community agencies that assist with education, employment and other needs. In additon, the organization trains and educates law enforcement officers, social workers and medical professionals on domestic violence issues. Local matching funds of $24,175 will supplement the grants.

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