Urge the Senate to Support VAWA Programs in Stimulus Package

February 2, 2009 |
Valor

As economic conditions worsen, victims are left with fewer resources and the demand for lifesaving services increases. Recognizing the great need for additional funding for essential domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking programs, on Tuesday, January 27, 2009, the Senate Appropriations Committee passed an economic stimulus bill entitled the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan (S.1).
This bill provides the following funding for critical victim services: $300 million for the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), specifically for Services, Training, Officers, and Prosecution (STOP)  state formula grants; out of which, $50  million will be allocated to the VAWA Transitional Housing program; and $100 million for the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA).
As exciting as this news is, it is only the first step in the process. It is critical that these Senate provisions are protected as the bill moves toward becoming law.  Make sure that your Senators hear how important the Senate bill provisions are to victims of violence!
Urge your Senators to support $300 million for the VAWA STOP program, $50 million for the VAWA Transitional Housing program, and for $100 million for the Victims of Crime Act.
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