MONTGOMERY— Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded a $1 million grant to assist a nonprofit organization in southwest Alabama to continue providing support to domestic violence victims.

Penelope House Inc. is using funds for its Victims’ Assistance Services Program which provides shelter and comprehensive services to victims in Mobile, Washington, Choctaw and Clarke counties. In addition to safe shelter, it provides a 24-hour crisis line, domestic violence counseling, case management, advocacy, support groups, child advocacy and counseling, and outreach services.

“Victims of domestic violence should be able to find the help and services they need to begin recovering and obtaining justice,” Ivey said. “I am pleased to support the important work the staff and volunteers of Penelope House perform daily to ensure that victims receive the care and assistance they need.”

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grant from funds made available to the state by the U.S. Justice Department. ADECA administers an array of programs in law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, workforce development, water resources and recreation development.

“I share Gov. Ivey’s commitment to helping domestic violence victims by providing access to professional care and assistance when they need it,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA’s partnership with Penelope House is like one of many across the state that strives to make life better for those who have been victimized.”

Local matching funds of $261,765 will supplement the grant.

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Contact Russell Sellers or Mike Presley