Frater Recognized for Domestic Violence Advocacy

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Advocates from across the country and West Virginia recognize Senator and Frater Robert C. Byrd (Alpha-Pi, George Washington Univ.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, for his efforts toward increasing funding to the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) in the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies (LHHS). The bill, passed last week by U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, is seen as a sign of hope for the many domestic violence programs struggling to meet the growing demand for their services.

"Senator Byrd is a great champion in the fight to end domestic violence. He understands the strong injustices faced by victims of domestic violence and has worked tirelessly to address them," said Sue Else, President of National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV). "Through his unwavering leadership, Senator Byrd was able to usher in essential increases despite a restrictive budget."

FVPSA, which supports lifesaving emergency shelter and services for victims and their families, received a $2.4 million increase in the bill. The bill also increased funding for the National Domestic Violence Hotline, which is fully funded at $3.5 million. It increased funding for Rape Prevention and Education (RPE) programs by $1 million to support essential, cost-effective programs that prevent sexual violence.

Each year, more and more victims of domestic violence find the courage to reach out for help and this funding increase is the first step toward bridging the gap in services. According to NNEDV's National Census of Domestic Violence Services, in just one day in West Virginia, domestic violence programs served more than 580 adults and children, while a shocking 48 requests for services went unmet.

"Senator Byrd understands the isolation and desperation faced by victims, especially in rural areas. We look forward to his continued advocacy as we face the challenges in providing victims with lifesaving services," said Else. "Victims in West Virginia and across the country are fortunate to have such a great leader working on their behalf as the bill moves forward."

In addition to funding emergency domestic violence shelters, FVPSA funds crisis intervention, counseling, children's services, transitional housing and local hotlines. There are over 2,000 local domestic violence shelters and programs nationwide that provide FVPSA-funded services to victims and their families.

Adapted from a PR Newswire Release. If you would like to see your chapter news here, contact Communications Coordinator Tom McAninch.