Van Hollen, Cardin Announce $2.79 million to Combat Violence Against Women in Maryland

U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) have announced $2,793,480 in federal funding to combat violence against women. The funding, awarded through the U.S. Department of Justice’s STOP (Services, Training, Officers, Prosecutors) Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program, enhances the capacity of communities across our state to develop and strengthen effective law enforcement and prosecution strategies to address violent crimes against women, as well as to develop and strengthen victim services in these cases.

“Violence against women continues to plague far too many in our state and across the country. And if we’re ever going to truly turn the tide, we must ensure that everyone – from service providers, to law enforcement, to the justice system – is working together. This funding, which was authorized by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) of 1994 and subsequent legislation, will help our state do just that. I am a strong supporter of the VAWA reauthorization legislation and will continue to push the Senate to pass that bill and dedicate funding to this critical issue,” said Senator Van Hollen, a member of the Budget and Appropriations Committees.

“One in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. These statistics are alarming, yet too many women suffer in silence – too ashamed or too afraid to ask for help. These victims need to know that they have our support,” said Senator Cardin. “STOP Violence Against Women Grants demonstrate that we as a nation are committed to ending domestic violence and supporting victims with access to justice, help with housing, medical care, and economic opportunity. To that end, the Senate must pass reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act, so that this invaluable program will continue to stand by women and victims of domestic violence in Maryland and communities across our country.”

The Office on Violence Against Women manages this grant program, which works to enhance victim safety and hold offenders accountable in cases of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

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