Domestic abuse shelter receives state grant

ATLANTA - A domestic violence shelter in northeast Georgia is the recipient of a $78,008 state grant.

Gov. Perdue recently presented the grant to NOA's Ark, Inc., which serves Dawson and Lumpkin counties.

The grant is part of a program administered by the state's Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC).

In making the award, state officials singled out NOA's Ark as a model for the state.

NOA's Ark provides crisis intervention, legal advocacy, court accompaniment, case management, shelter, food, clothing, referral services, follow-up care, child-care, support groups, activities, transportation, and educational services to victims of crime.

Governor Perdue said, "All Georgia communities suffer when domestic
violence occurs. NOA's Ark is a great example of a community's response to combating this crime."

The award is part of the 2004 Victims of Crime Act Formula Grant Program (VOCA). The purpose of the grant is to improve the functioning of the criminal justice system with an emphasis on serving the needs of victims of violent crimes, according to CJCC officials.

CJCC Deputy Director Dianne Williams said, "The VOCA Grant Program
provides vital support to state, local, and private non-profit programs throughout Georgia."

The VOCA program provides funds to benefit children's advocacy centers, domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, Court Appointed Special Advocate programs, and victim witness assistance programs. The federal government awards the grant to CJCC on behalf of the State of Georgia for distribution to victim services providers across Georgia.

All recipients must provide direct services to victims of crime. In addition, the grant program fosters a level of community involvement by requiring a 20% match of each applicant.