Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. revealed that New York State has received $7.7 million of federal funding to combat domestic violence and sexual assault.
The Retreat, Inc. of East Hampton will receive $35,000 which will partially fund one advocate and two counselors (one bilingual) for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
“Particularly in these difficult and divisive times, with an increased demand for services to address sexual assault and domestic violence, funding is critical,” said Loretta Davis, Executive Director of The Retreat. “The Retreat strongly supports Assemblyman Fred Thiele’s efforts to increase funding for domestic violence and sexual assault services. We also acknowledge Assemblyman Thiele’s continued support to end the cycle of violence through prevention education programs in schools and in our communities. He has been an outspoken leader and an advocate for children, teenagers and families impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault.”
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Executive Director of The Retreat, Loretta K. Davis. (Courtesy Photo) |
Suffolk County Probation Department will receive $66,750 and has partnered with the Victims Information Bureau, Retreat, Inc., Brighter Tomorrows, and the Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The money will fund a sexual assault nurse examiner program, including on-call pay, and to provide services to domestic violence/sexual assault victims.
The Suffolk County Police Department will receive $66,745 and plans to upgrade panic alarms for domestic violence victims and provide on-call pay for sexual assault nurse examiners. Victims Information Bureau of Suffolk County will receive $35,600 to fund a sexual assault nurse examiner program and to partially fund a coordinator and on-call pay.
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The Retreat’s “Stephanie House” shelter. (Courtesy Photo) |
This funding through federal Violence Against Women Act will support advocacy, counseling and legal services, as well as the salaries of nurses or other medical professionals who are specially trained to perform forensic exams on sexual assault. The State Division of Criminal Justice Services will administer the federal grant funding.
The New York State Domestic & Sexual Violence Hotline is 1-800-842-6906. This hotline offers help and information 24 hours a day, in English, Spanish, and other languages. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can call 711.
For more information about The Retreat, call 631-329-4397 or visit www.theretreatinc.org.
