The organization, based in Florence, will use the grant for building maintenance and repairs and for furnishing a new shelter in Marion County. The new shelter will provide a more convenient location for victims seeking services who live in Marion, Winston and Lawrence counties, according to Safeplace officials.

“Having a safe shelter to escape violence is imperative for victims of domestic violence,” Ivey said. “I commend the Safeplace staff for all of the services they provide for those in need.”

Safeplace serves victims in Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale Lawrence, Marion and Winston counties with a variety of services including a 24-hour helpline, emergency shelter, counseling, court accompaniment and more.

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

“Gov. Ivey understands the immediate safety needs of domestic violence victims, and ADECA is pleased to stand with her in supporting Safeplace and the valuable work they do,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said.

Ivey notified Safeplace board president Phil Moss that the grant had been approved.