MONTGOMERY— A Dothan-based nonprofit group will continue to help victims in nine counties recover from the trauma of domestic violence and sexual abuse with the help of a grant awarded by Gov. Kay Ivey.

The $56,687 grant will help The House of Ruth for continued support of two court advocates who assist victims with filing protection orders. The advocates also assist and support victims in misdemeanor criminal cases in Barbour, Bullock, Coffee, Covington, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston and Pike counties.

“Domestic violence victims deserve ready access to a variety of professional services including those provided by court advocates who can help them navigate the complexities of the justice system,” Ivey said. “I commend the work of the staff and volunteers of these organizations who work to protect victims and their families every day.”

The organization provides a 24-hour crisis line, emergency shelter for victims and their children, counseling, case management and educational programs.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grant from funds made available by the U.S. Justice Department.

“ADECA joins Gov. Ivey in support of The House of Ruth and the services it offers for domestic violence victims and their families,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to partner with the organization to ensure that all abuse victims have access to professional assistance.”

ADECA administers an array of programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, water resource management and recreation development. Ivey notified Erin Richardson, president of the organization’s board, that the grant had been approved.

--30--

Contact: Russell Sellers, Mike Presley