New York Governor Empowers Domestic Violence Survivors With $5M Grants

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a significant investment of $5 million in grants to 65 domestic violence service providers across New York State. These funds are dedicated to directly supporting survivors and victims of domestic violence, addressing critical needs and fostering financial empowerment. This initiative fulfills a key promise outlined in Governor Hochul's 2024 State of the State address by establishing the Survivors Access Financial Empowerment (SAFE) Fund.

$35 Million In State Funding For Law Enforcement And District Attorneys

In addition to this allocation, Governor Hochul has secured an additional $35 million in state funding to bolster resources for law enforcement and district attorneys, enhancing their capacity to prevent and prosecute domestic violence crimes through survivor-centered and trauma-informed interventions.

Governor Hochul emphasized her commitment to assisting individuals impacted by domestic violence, recognizing that financial constraints often hinder survivors from accessing safety and stability. By providing targeted emergency assistance, survivors can receive support for various needs including education, employment training, housing, legal aid, utilities, transportation, and healthcare services for themselves and their children.

The New York State Office of Victim Services (OVS) plays a pivotal role in supporting survivors through its network of victim assistance programs, offering financial assistance for medical and counseling expenses, funeral costs, lost wages, and more. John Watson, Acting Director and Counsel of OVS, emphasized the agency's commitment to aiding survivors and encouraged individuals to utilize the OVS Resource Connect tool for assistance.

Support Is Available!

For those in need of immediate support, victims of domestic violence can access resources through the Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence website or contact the Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline at 800-942-6906 (call), 844-997-2121 (text), or via chat at opdv.ny.gov.