Big News: Federal and State Grants Totalling $26 Million to Boost Victim Services in South Carolina
Greenville, S.C – In a move that is seen as a major boost to victim services in South Carolina, The State’s Attorney General announced on Tuesday that victims’ service organizations across the state will soon be receiving more than $26 million in federal and state grants. The grants have been formerly approved by the S.C. Public Safety Coordinating Council and will be distributed by the Department of Crime Victim Assistance Grants.
These funds, which include both federal and state grants, will be made available to various types of organizations and groups, such as private non-profit organizations, sheriff’s offices, police departments, solicitor’s offices, and state agencies. A wide array of services, from providing shelter for victims of domestic violence to therapeutic and legal services for victims of sexual assault, will be covered by these grants.
It was noted that around 61% of the funding is derived from federal grants, while the remaining percentage will be covered by state funds.
Project R.E.S.T to Benefit
Among the several organizations to benefit from these grants, Project R.E.S.T., which operates across Cherokee, Spartanburg, and Union counties, will be receiving two VOCA awards. These awards total $838,413 and will significantly aid the organization in continuing its essential work in providing shelter and supportive services to domestic violence victims, as well as victim and legal advocacy, and therapeutic services to victims of sexual assault.
Quotes from the State’s Attorney General
The State’s Attorney General hailed this move as a significant moment in the support to vulnerable individuals in the community who are going through traumatic circumstances. He lauded the work put in by state and local agencies and non-profit groups, and re-emphasized that these funds will be pivotal in supporting these organizations as they continue assisting victims of violent crime in their journeys to recovery.
In his exact words, the Attorney General stated, “These state and local agencies and non-profit groups do so much to help people who are going through traumatic circumstances. With these funds we are able to support agencies throughout the state as they assist victims of violent crime in their recovery.”
The Impact of These Funds
The cumulative value of these federal and state grants mark a significant step toward making South Carolina a safer place for victims of violent crimes. Furthermore, this funding will likely facilitate a more comprehensive coverage of services provided to victims, ensuring better assistance during their recovery period. This news is a hopeful sign for all South Carolina residents – a much-needed beam of light in difficult times.
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