Over $2.8 million awarded to combat violence against women

The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) has awarded more than $2.8 million to 46 public and nonprofit organizations towards female violence victims. 

Through STOP (services, training, officers and prosecutors) Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program, communities can strengthen law enforcement and prosecution strategies as well as enhance victim services and safety. 

In STOP's 2016 annual report to Congress, they seek to address ways women are victimized: domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, sex trafficking and stalking.

The largest portion of their funds goes towards victims' services. 

These funds help victims cope the immediate and long-term violence in their lives including crisis intervention, victim advocacy, shelter and housing. 

"Our strategy is to build partnerships with community organizations to break the cycle of violence and provide more support to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Indiana," said Kim Lambert, ICJI Victim Services Division Director.

Here are the funds distributed to our area: 

Elkhart County Prosecutor's Office - $29,202.84

St. Joseph County Prosecutor's Office - $171,285.95

According to the U.S. Department of Justice: 

Each state and territory must allocate 25 percent for law enforcement, 25 percent for prosecutors, 30 percent for victim services (of which at least 10 percent must be distributed to culturally specific community-based organizations), 5 percent to state and local courts, and 15 percent for discretionary distribution.

Grants will be available to organizations starting October 1.