The Enid News and Eagle, Enid, OK

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September 22, 2006

Federal grant to fund fight against violence

By Cass Rains Staff Writer

YWCA of Enid received a two-year federal grant award for $276,705 that will fund two full-time positions and a half-time position.

The grant was awarded through Rural Domestic Violence and Child Victimization Enforcement Discretionary Grants Program. YWCA received notification of the grant in August, said Suzi Powell, retiring women’s services director.

The money comes through Violence Against Women Office of Department of Justice and Violence Against Women Act.

The agency received a congratulatory letter from U.S. Sen. James Inhofe, R-Okla., for its effort in securing the award.

The money will fund a full-time victim’s advocate, who will travel throughout Blaine, Garfield, Grant and Kingfisher counties distributing service information regarding assistance for domestic violence victims and will work with victims in securing emergency and final protective orders.

Another full-time position is the community education and prevention specialist.

“This staff person will educate teens on dating violence and healthy relationships and present to groups about the dynamics, prevention and solutions concerning domestic violence,” Powell said.

Presentations to professionals in law enforcement, clergy, health, mental health, education and social service fields also will be given by this person.

The third professional funded by this grant is a half-time licensed counselor.

Awarded funds also will finance travel to national training for project personnel and community partners.

The grant runs until July 31, 2008.

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