Sexual Assault Services Program Announced

"The new Sexual Assault Services Program will focus on providing improved services for sexual assault victims and a stronger criminal justice response to sexual assault crimes," said Ms. Dyer, who made the announcement during National Sexual Assault Awareness month. "I look forward to working with sexual assault victim advocates, service providers and criminal justice professionals to implement this important program." Ms. Dyer is an experienced prosecutor and a recognized authority on the topic of family violence and sexual assault.

In addition to establishing rape crisis centers, awards made through the program will assist states, Indian tribes and territories to provide intervention and related assistance services. These may include: 24-hour hotline services; accompaniment and advocacy through medical, criminal justice and social support systems, including medical facilities, police and court proceedings; crisis intervention; and community-based, linguistically and culturally specific services and support mechanisms, including outreach activities for underserved communities.

An announcement regarding eligibility requirements, funding thresholds and application procedures for the Sexual Assault Services Program will be forthcoming. Once available, the grant solicitation will be posted on www.ovw.usdoj.gov

The Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), a component of the U.S. Department of Justice, provides leadership in developing the nation's capacity to reduce violence against women through the implementation of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities across the country that are developing programs, policies and practices aimed at ending domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. In addition to overseeing 12 federal grant programs, OVW often undertakes initiatives in response to areas of special need, dedicating resources to develop enhancements in areas requiring particular attention or in communities facing particularly acute challenges. More information is available at www.ovw.usdoj.gov.

SOURCE U.S. Department of Justice

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Copyright © 2008, NewsBlaze, Daily News

Tags: ,LAW,POL,WOM,EXE,PDT,DOJ-rape-crisis-cente

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