The Justice Department has made an announcement regarding the allocation of $69,632,900 across 212 awards as part of the Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside (TVSSA) program.
This initiative aims to provide assistance to American Indian and Alaska Native communities throughout the United States, aiming to enhance the services available to victims of crime, in accordance with the Victims of Crime Act.
Diverse Support for Crime Victims
The awards will serve to finance a wide spectrum of services catering to crime victims, ranging from counseling and civil legal aid to emergency housing and ceremonial practices promoting Tribal wellness.
Notably, approximately $22 million of the TVSSA grants will be directed towards 67 Tribal communities located in Alaska.
Addressing Challenges Faced by Alaska Native Communities
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland acknowledges the significant challenges faced by Alaska Native families and communities, especially the persistent levels of violence that disproportionately affect women and girls.
He emphasizes the commitment of the Justice Department to collaborate across federal entities and with Alaska Native communities in tackling these pressing issues.
Support for Alaska Native Communities Continues
Moreover, on the same day, the Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) has granted $774,790 in awards through the Sexual Assault Services Formula Grant Program (SASP) specifically for Alaska Native communities.
High-Level Engagement with Community Leaders
As a display of high-level engagement, Attorney General Garland undertook visits to Anchorage and Galena, Alaska.
During these visits, he engaged with community leaders from various Alaska Native villages.
Accompanied by Senator Lisa Murkowski and Representative Mary Peltola, these interactions included discussions on public safety concerns in Alaskan Native Villages.
Tailoring Assistance to Unique Challenges
The grants provided by the Department are particularly aimed at aiding Alaska Native communities and remote tribes in addressing the distinct challenges they encounter in delivering victim services.
To streamline the accessibility of grants, the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) conducted a pilot project, which involved deploying grant managers to Alaska for on-ground support, recognizing the limitations of resources in remote areas.
Positive Impact and Ongoing Commitment
Over the five years since the initiation of the Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside program, the Justice Department has disbursed numerous awards, leading to the provision of vital services to thousands of crime victims.
These funds have been pivotal in supporting victims of various crimes, including domestic violence, sexual assault, arson, elder abuse, fraud, and trafficking.
The Attorney General’s recent trip, coupled with these grant awards, underscores the continued dedication of the Justice Department to uplift Tribal communities.
These initiatives aim to ensure that these communities receive the necessary resources for sustaining public safety and security.
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