Governor awards grant to help Russell County abuse victims | News

RUSSELL COUNTY, AL - Gov. Robert Bentley has awarded grants totaling $132,536 to support organizations that assist victims of domestic violence and child abuse in Russell County.   

Crisis Center of Russell County is receiving three grants totaling $89,056 to continue offering emergency shelter, counseling, food, clothing and other needs for domestic violence victims. Started in 1991, the organization also provides support groups and assistance in obtaining protection orders if necessary.

A $43,480 grant will support the operations of the Russell County Child Advocacy Center. The organization works with local social service agencies and law enforcement officers to aid victims and prosecute offenders. Specially trained staff members conduct professional and confidential interviews with abuse victims and their families in a secure setting. An interview room equipped with closed-circuit recording equipment enables interviews to be taped and used as evidence in prosecuting offenders.

 The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. ADECA administers an array of programs that support law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, workforce development, water resource management and recreation development.

Bentley informed Valerie McLain, executive director of the Crisis Center, and Greg Allmendinger, president of the Child Advocacy Center’s board, that the grants had been approved.

In addition to grant funds, both organizations depend on private donations to ensure a full range of free assistance is available to victims