Governor Kelly Announces More than $1.5M to Support Domestic Violence Survivors and Families

Topeka–Governor Laura Kelly announced on Monday over $1.5 million for 20 organizations to support efforts aimed at preventing family, domestic, and dating violence, providing critical services to survivors of domestic violence, and increasing safe parenting time for noncustodial parents with their children. This funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) and the State Access and Visitation Program (SAVP).  

“It is essential that those impacted by domestic violence have the support and resources needed to heal and rebuild their lives,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “These investments not only provide aid to survivors of domestic violence but also aim to prevent future incidents from occurring.” 

The FVPSA grant funds enable organizations to deliver a wide range of services. These services include outreach and education aimed at preventing family violence, emergency shelter for victims and their dependents, support groups, crisis intervention services, advocacy for obtaining protection from abuse orders, court accompaniment, and transportation assistance. The funding also supports initiatives to spread awareness to schools, communities, and families on how to stop violence before it begins. 

The SAVP grant funds provide critical funding to support children and families in need of supervised exchange or visitation services. They also enable programs to offer on-site as well as therapeutic supervision, monitored exchanges, referrals to additional resources, and educational parenting classes designed to strengthen family relationships. 

A total of $1,442,065 in FVPSA grant funds was awarded to 20 agencies. 

A total of $95,000 in SAVP grant funds was awarded to nine agencies.