MONTGOMERY — Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded grants totaling more than $350,000 to help a statewide nonprofit organization continue aiding victims of domestic violence through numerous free services.

The Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence offers shelter and intervention for victims and provides advocacy and educational services to bring awareness of domestic violence. The three awards totaling $350,757 were made possible through state and federal resources.

“Domestic violence knows no barriers and crosses all economic, gender and social lines,” Gov. Ivey said. “The Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence brings awareness to that problem and ensures that victims have an avenue to escape harmful situations and rebuild their lives.”

The coalition supports shelters throughout Alabama and operates regional 24-hour crisis telephone lines for victims needing information or seeking to escape violent situations. It also provides training and technical assistance for police and others who encounter domestic violence situations and helps develop public policy to reduce domestic violence and ensure victims receive proper services.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available by the Alabama Domestic Violence Trust Fund, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Justice.

“Gov. Ivey and ADECA are committed to working with the Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence and its associated organizations,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “This assistance will help ensure victims have a place where they will find refuge and understanding.”

ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, victim programs, economic development, water resource management, energy conservation and recreation.

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Contact Jim Plott or Mike Presley