(Indianapolis, IN) – The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) awarded more than $6,800,000 in grant funding to organizations that support victims of sexual assault in Indiana through two grant programs.
The funding will go to support rape crisis centers and nonprofit organizations that provide core services, direct intervention, and related assistance to victims of sexual assault in Indiana. The funding was provided through the Sexual Assault Services Program (SASP) and Sexual Assault Victim Assistance Fund Grant (SAVAF).
The SAVAF grant program was established in 2016 by the Indiana General Assembly. This program provides a comprehensive statewide response to support victims of sexual assault, including establishing and maintaining rape crisis centers along with providing services that work to address the physical, psychological and emotional needs of victims.
For the 2024-2025 grant cycle, $5,907,452.45 was awarded to 17 organizations across the state. Some areas funded in the grant cycle include safe shelter, counseling, crisis lines, advocacy support, referrals, and prevention services.
Locally, Safe Passage, Inc. received $222,479.00 in Year 1 from SAVAF, and $284,166.49 Year 2 for a total of $506,645.49.
“The organizations receiving funding provide more than just direct support,” said Kim Lambert, ICJI Victim Services Director. “They are leading the fight against sexual assault by engaging communities and implementing innovative prevention strategies.”
“These grants are not only an investment in healing, but an investment in justice, safety, and a brighter future in Indiana,” said Devon McDonald, Executive Director for ICJI. “By empowering survivors and equipping organizations that support them with the resources they need, we create a ripple effect of resilience and hope that extends beyond the individual.”
The SASP grant program provides direct intervention and related assistance to victims of sexual assault and their families. These funds are made available to rape crisis centers and related non-profits through the U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women.
For the 2024 grant cycle, $896,007.98 was awarded to 11 organizations across the state. These funds will support sexual assault programming and advocacy services in Indiana.
The grants were approved by the ICJI Board of Trustees earlier this month and will be made available to organizations starting in January.
