SIGNIFICANT FUNDING AWARDED TO TWO VICTIM SERVICE PROGRAMS IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY

HARRISBURG, August 6, 2003 – Senator Connie Williams (D-Montgomery/Delaware) today joined Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) Chairman Jim Eisenhower to present grants totaling over $390,000 to two organizations in Montgomery County that assist victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Laurel House, a safe haven for abused women and children, received two separate grants totaling $297,770. A grant of $92,713 was made to the Lincoln Center for Family and Youth in Bridgeport, which hosted the grant announcement.

“Laurel House and the Lincoln Center are providing essential services to our most at-risk families,” Williams said. “This funding will continue to support important programs that help to restore hope for victims of domestic violence and help them to rebuild their lives.”

Grants awarded to Laurel House include a $120,000 federal STOP Violence Against Women grant, which supports continued collaboration between victims’ services, law enforcement and the county district attorney. Laurel House also received a $177,777 federal Domestic Violence Shelter and Services grant to provide emergency shelter, counseling and supportive services to victims of domestic violence.

Founded in 1980, Laurel House is the only emergency domestic violence shelter in Montgomery County. It serves as the fiscal agent for the county’s federal STOP grant funding.

The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth received $92,713 in federal Victims Of Crime Act (VOCA) funds, which will support services for children, teens and families experiencing abuse or domestic violence. The center also extends special services to older adults. The Lincoln Center has provided services to county residents for over 25 years.

“I am pleased that this funding went to organizations that provide a refuge for and ensure the safety of women, children and families,” Williams said. “These are extremely worthy organizations that make a world of difference in the lives of many Montgomery County residents.”