Governor Kelly Announces More than $2M to Support Survivors of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault

Office of the Governor

Governor Laura Kelly has announced that more than $2.4 million in grants have been awarded to support survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, rape, and stalking. The funds are provided through the federal Services, Training, Officers, and Prosecutors (S.T.O.P.) Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Formula Grant Program, which supports community-based initiatives to prevent and respond to violence against women.

“It is critical that survivors have access to resources as they overcome and heal from crimes like domestic violence and sexual assault,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This funding will help better prevent these violent crimes and enables organizations to provide the support survivors need as they seek justice and recover.”

The program supports the development, training, and expansion of specialized units within law enforcement, prosecution, and the courts to effectively address these crimes. It also strengthens victim services and legal assistance programs, while fostering a coordinated community response to domestic violence, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

Funding is also provided through the federal Sexual Assault Services Program (SASP). These grants support local programs in providing essential services to survivors of sexual assault, including crisis intervention, accompaniment through medical and criminal justice processes, advocacy, and the distribution of educational resources that promote healing and recovery.

The grant funds are made available through the U.S. Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.