Domestic Violence: Loss of grant funding impacts those filing protective orders
LEXINGTON, North Carolina – Family Services of Davidson County (FSDC) on September 30 ended its expanded advocacy program which provided support and advocacy during the electronic filing of domestic violence protective orders. Loss of funding through the Governor’s Crime Commissions forced the end of services.
Over the last six years, the expanded advocacy program has provided more than 4,800 individuals with assistance as they were escaping domestic violence. Many of those served included children who were impacted by domestic violence. Victims were able to receive services by simply walking in and requesting to speak with an advocate.
An assessment for safety, housing, mental health, and connection to resources were the key elements of this service. These were provided while the victim was able to secure a domestic violence protective order at our location and most often within the same day. Ending the barriers victims face when filing a domestic violence protective order was also key to surviving the abuse.
“We are heartbroken to see our services through this vital program end,” said Tim Tilley, FSDC executive director.“We witnessed on a daily basis the positive impact we could have on individuals and families as they worked to keep themselves safe and make difficult decisions for their futures.”
Safety for our community
Although FSDC sought other funding to continue the program after the loss of grant funds, to date other funding has not been identified. To ensure safety for the community, FSDC plans to use reserve funds to keep some of the services operational through 2022.
As the program ends, those needing domestic violence protective orders may seek documentation at the Davidson County Clerk of Courts office. FSDC is appreciative of the support we have received from the Clerk of Court as we sought to keep our community safe.
Other FSDC services remain strong
FSDC continues to provide its long-standing services to address domestic violence, sexual assault, mental health, and at-risk youth. These services have not been affected by the loss of money for the expanded advocacy program.
“What we do know is that the loss of our expanded advocacy program will mean many of those caught in the grips of domestic violence will be less safe and will have more difficulty in securing domestic violence protective orders,” said Tilley. “That’s what keeps us up at night.”
