Local Domestic Violence Programs Receive State Grants

ALBANY, 07/05/12 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) announced today that local domestic violence programs would be receiving direct, unrestricted grants through the state senate.

“These community programs provide vital services for those in dire need,” said Senator Seward.  “The U.S. Surgeon General has identified domestic violence as the number one health problem affecting American women.  Providing help to vulnerable individuals, who often have nowhere else to turn, is essential.”

The funding was set aside in the 2012-2013 state budget.

Program - Funding Amount

YWCA of Cortland - $10,000

Catholic Charities of Herkimer County -  $10,000

Opportunities for Otsego -  $10,000

Catholic Charities of Schoharie County - $10,000

Chenango County Catholic Charities - $5,000

Advocacy Center of Tompkins County - $5,000

Along with providing grant funds to local, non-profit violence intervention programs, Senator Seward is also a proponent of strong domestic violence laws.  This year, he supported legislation (S.7638/A.10624) to strengthen New York’s laws by providing new protections to victims and tougher penalties for those who commit domestic violence. 

“This comprehensive legislation targeting domestic violence is a major development – it creates harsh penalties suitable for abusers and provides law enforcement and prosecutors with the tools they need to put dangerous criminal behind bars,” Seward said. 

The legislation was a result of a three way agreement among the senate, governor and assembly.  The bill passed both the senate and assembly and will be sent to the governor for final approval.

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