Gov. Andy Beshear awarded almost $8 million statewide to programs and projects that support victims of violent crime. A handful of local organizations are among the recipients.
“As Governor, I am committed to protecting every person in our state,” Beshear said. “This funding is another step toward a Kentucky where every victim of crime is provided with the critical recovery resources, protection and legal services to ensure justice.”
The money comes from federal ARPA funds, and the state is dedicating the the allocations to “responding to the emotional, psychological and physical needs of crime victims, assisting them in stabilizing their lives after victimization, helping them navigate the criminal justice process and helping restore a measure of security and safety for survivors.”
Locally the following organizations are receiving funds from the allocation:
- CASA of Ohio Valley, Inc: $47,599
- Green River Regional Rape Victim Services (aka New Beginnings Sexual Assault Support Services): $233,273
- Mountain Comprehensive Care Center: $48,163
- Owensboro Area Shelter & Information Services (OASIS): $200,000
CASA works to help abused, neglected, or dependent children in the family court system and find them appropriate representation while in the system. OASIS and New Beginnings focus on women and their children who have suffered from domestic violence.
Mountain Comprehensive Care Center is a state-wide program with a location in Owensboro that is geared toward substance abuse and mental health treatment for women.
ARPA funds will support projects providing direct services for crime victims, reentry services and recidivism reduction, prosecution and law enforcement response to gun violence, as well as enhancement of the technology to respond to criminal victimization. Projects providing services to crime victims received priority, with over 92% of the awarded funds going for this purpose.
For a full list of 2022-23 ARPA State Fiscal Recovery Fund VOCA sub-award recipients, visit the KJPSC’s website. Leaders from several organizations noted the beneficial impact that these funds will make on their communities.
