Office of the Governor Rick Perry - [Press Release] Gov. Perry Announces Award of $178,646 To Programs Combating Violence Against Women

Gov. Perry Announces Award of $178,646 To Programs Combating Violence Against Women

Tuesday, November 29, 2005 • Press Release

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today announced the award of $178,646 in grants to three programs dedicated to combating violent crimes against women and offering services to victims of these crimes. The grants are awarded under the federal S.T.O.P. Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and are distributed by the Governor’s Criminal Justice Division (CJD).

“These programs and services will give victims the hope and support they need during these times of crisis,” Perry said. “Through additional education and increased law enforcement we will reinforce the message that violence against women will not be tolerated.”

VAWA programs address family violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence through projects administered by law enforcement, courts, and victim services agencies. These projects provide essential services, promote outreach to underserved communities and improve training for victim advocates. Grant funds also maintain family violence and sexual assault task forces and strengthen prosecution of offenders who commit violent crimes against women.

Each year, CJD provides more that $130 million in grants to help Texans at the forefront of the fight against crime. CJD funds a variety of juvenile justice, criminal justice, and victim services programs – all aimed at making Texas a safer place.

The awards include:

$58,741 to Harris County to provide direct assistance to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking.

$71,644 to Harris County to provide training for law enforcement officers on investigation and interview techniques, protective orders, stalker characteristics, and crime victim compensation.

$48,261 to Houston County to expedite court cases involving victims of crime and provide direct services to victims, including referral services; protective orders; emergency and group counseling; justice support/advocacy; and assistance in applying for benefits.