(Indianapolis, IN) – Two area prosecutor’s offices have received grants to combat domestic violence, while a local organization is receiving funds to assist those impacted by domestic violence.
In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) says more than $8.5 million in grant funding is awarded to 69 organizations across the state that provide critical services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of abuse.
This year’s awards include $3.9 million through the federal Services, Training, Officers, Prosecutors (STOP) Violence Against Women Grant, provided to 49 organizations to support coordinated, community-driven responses to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
Locally, the Ripley County Prosecutor’s Office was awarded $80,046. 80, while the Franklin County Prosecutor’s Office received $45.000.
ICJI says STOP funds will help strengthen court programs, enhance law enforcement and prosecution activities, and expand victim services statewide.
The agency awarded an additional $2.7 million in federal Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) grants to 35 organizations, including Safe Passage, which is receiving $95,000.
These funds support emergency shelter operations, crisis intervention services, prevention programming, and resources for children exposed to violence.
ICJI also awarded $1.7 million through the Sexual Assault Victims Assistance Fund (SAVAF) to 13 organizations, one of which is Safe Passage.
The local agency that works with individuals and families affected by domestic and sexual violence in a six-county service area will receive $37,666.82.
SAVAF, appropriated by the Indiana General Assembly, is intended to expand and maintain Rape Crisis Centers and strengthen trauma-informed sexual assault services throughout the state.
ICJI Executive Director Douglas Huntsinger said the funding reflects the state’s priority of meeting victims’ needs through a strong network of local partners.
“Our communities rely on organizations that step forward every day to support survivors with dignity and care,” Huntsinger said. “These organizations are a lifeline for people navigating some of the most difficult moments of their lives, and this investment ensures they have the resources necessary to respond effectively when someone turns to them for help.”
All grants were approved by the ICJI Board of Trustees on September 4.
