83 Domestic Violence Programs and Shelters to Receive More Than $16 Million for COVID Testing and Vaccinations and to Support Services in Underserved Communities
$7.6 Million Earmarked to Support 50 Rape Crisis Centers and Sexual Assault Programs
Critical Funding to Help Domestic Violence Programs Serve Uptick in Survivors and Offset Unprecedented Fiscal Challenges Triggered by Pandemic
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State is distributing nearly $24 million in federal funding to domestic violence programs and shelters, sexual assault programs, and rape crisis centers. The funding will help these programs expand on-site COVID testing and vaccination availability, offset fiscal challenges caused by the pandemic, better reach underserved communities, and support the recent uptick in survivors seeking help.
"My mother opened a home for survivors of domestic and gender-based violence, so providing services to this vulnerable population is an issue is close to my heart," Governor Hochul said. "The pandemic has tragically led to a rise in domestic and gender-based violence, and this funding is critical to ensuring that survivors can safely access the help and services they need."
Funded through the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act and American Rescue Plan, 83 domestic violence programs and centers will receive $16.3 million in funding, which will support access to COVID testing, vaccinations, and mobile health units. It will also augment traditional domestic violence services for rural communities, culturally specific programs and underserved communities. Additionally, 50 rape crisis centers and sexual assault programs are receiving $7.6 million to support their services, while also enhancing measures to prevent and mitigate COVID. The New York State Office of Children and Family Services is administering the funding.
OCFS Commissioner Sheila J. Poole said, "The last thing domestic violence and sexual assault survivors should have to worry about is protecting their health when they're seeking crucial services to heal and move their lives forward. OCFS is very pleased to administer these funds, which will make a meaningful difference in the lives of survivors and help prevent the spread of COVID."
Provider funding breakdown, by region:
- Capital Region: $2,354,675
- Central New York: $1,828,638
- Finger Lakes: $2,410,368
- Long Island: $2,321,091
- Mid-Hudson: $2,859,754
- Mohawk Valley: $1,368,411
- North Country: $1,283,045
- New York City: $4,492,056
- Southern Tier: $1,337,656.00
- Western New York: $2,828,350
- Multiple Regions*: $821,700
*One provider is receiving both rape crisis center and sexual assault funding in one award that covers 11 counties in three economic regions.
In the pandemic's second year, domestic violence services providers have reported an increased number of survivors asking for assistance, as well as an increase in the severity of abuse. The pandemic has also created unprecedented fiscal challenges to domestic violence service providers across the state. In addition to enhancing COVID services, these federal funds will assist with workforce stabilization and ensure continuity of services for survivors.
The funding for sexual assault programs and rape crisis centers supports the needs of survivors impacted by the public health emergency and promotes the continuity of services in local communities. It will help programs transition to virtual/remote services and help cover the costs of supplies to reduce the risk of catching and spreading the COVID-19 virus. Funding can also be used for workforce stability or expansions.
New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Executive Director Kelli Owens said, "COVID-19 continues to impact survivors of domestic and sexual violence who experience isolation, fear, and financial stress that has been exacerbated by the pandemic. Domestic and sexual violence programs will now have additional funding to support all survivors with COVID-related needs. The funding also aligns with the Hochul Administration's initiatives to expand domestic and sexual violence services to be more survivor-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for prioritizing survivors."
New York State Office of Victim Services Director Elizabeth Cronin said, "It is clear that the pandemic has exacerbated the challenges faced by survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault as they seek safety and stability for themselves and their families. At OVS, we are proud to support a comprehensive network of programs and services to support survivors. I thank Governor Hochul and colleagues from sister state agencies for their dedication to ensuring that this critical support is available whenever and wherever it is needed."
New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence Executive Director Connie Neal said, "Domestic violence advocates have reported significant increases in the demand for services as well as disconcerting trends in the complexity of survivors' experiences since the pandemic began. We thank Governor Hochul and OCFS for making this funding available for supporting the emergency needs of domestic violence survivors and their children, enhancing their safety and overall wellbeing, and prioritizing workforce stabilization at advocacy programs across the state."
New York State Coalition Against Sexual Assault Executive Director Joanne Zannoni said, "We are grateful for the support of Governor Hochul and OCFS during these incredibly difficult times for sexual assault survivors and the advocates who serve them. Survivors' needs have overwhelmed our programs. These added resources will make a difference for those who are trying to heal from sexual violence and exploitation."
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