Emporia-based nonprofit SOS, a dedicated organization fighting domestic and family violence, has secured a total of $68,122 in federal grants to strengthen its community services.
The grants, awarded by the Office of the Kansas Governor, underscore the critical role of nonprofit organizations in addressing domestic violence and ensuring safe environments for families.
This article dives into the specifics of the grants, their allocation, and the broader impact on the community.
Grant Details: FVPSA and SAVP Contributions
SOS received funding through two distinct grants:
- Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA):
The FVPSA grant, facilitated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, allocated $56,919 to SOS. This funding will support the nonprofit’s shelter services, including essential supplies and staffing a Shelter Manager to oversee operations effectively. - State Access and Visitation Program (SAVP):
The SAVP grant provided an additional $11,203 to SOS. This fund will be used to sustain the Child Visitation and Exchange Center, a space designed to offer a “home-like” environment for supervised visitation and safe child exchanges between parents.
The total amount of $68,122 marks a significant milestone for SOS, enabling it to continue delivering critical services to families in need.
Grant Impact on SOS Services
Mickey Edwards, the Executive Director of SOS, emphasized the importance of these grants in ensuring the organization’s operations.
“We are very grateful for the support of the Kansas Governor’s grants program. Without them, we would really be in trouble in being able to provide our services,” said Edwards.
The FVPSA grant will help maintain and improve the following:
- Shelter Operations: Funding will ensure that the shelter remains operational, providing a safe haven for survivors.
- Basic Necessities: Allocations will be used for household and food supplies, ensuring residents have access to essential needs.
- Staffing: The grant enables SOS to employ a Shelter Manager to oversee daily operations and ensure a supportive environment.
The SAVP grant, on the other hand, focuses on the Child Visitation and Exchange Center, which offers:
- Supervised Visitation: A controlled environment where noncustodial parents can spend time with their children.
- Safe Exchanges: A neutral space for parents to exchange children without conflict.
Kansas Governor’s Support for Community Initiatives
The grants provided to SOS are part of a broader initiative by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly’s office to combat domestic violence and support affected families.
Governor Kelly stated:
“It is essential that those impacted by domestic violence have the support and resources needed to heal and rebuild their lives. These investments not only provide aid to survivors of domestic violence but also aim to prevent future incidents from occurring.”
In total, $1.2 million was awarded to 20 Kansas nonprofits, all dedicated to preventing domestic and family violence and providing essential services to survivors.
Breakdown of FVPSA and SAVP Grants in Kansas
Below is a detailed table outlining SOS’s grant allocation and its intended uses:
| Grant Program | Amount Received | Purpose | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| FVPSA | $56,919 | Shelter services, supplies, staffing Shelter Manager | Ensures safety and operational efficiency |
| SAVP | $11,203 | Child Visitation and Exchange Center | Provides safe, supervised parenting environments |
Broader Impact of SOS’s Work
With these grants, SOS will be able to:
- Enhance Safety for Survivors: The shelter will continue to provide a refuge for victims of domestic violence, ensuring their safety and well-being.
- Support Families Through Transition: The visitation center fosters a positive environment for families during challenging times.
- Prevent Future Violence: By addressing the root causes of domestic violence, SOS contributes to a safer community.
The $68,122 in grants awarded to SOS highlights the critical importance of nonprofit organizations in addressing domestic and family violence. By securing these funds, SOS not only sustains its current initiatives but also positions itself as a beacon of hope for survivors in Kansas.
As domestic violence continues to be a pressing issue, investments like these play a vital role in providing the support and resources necessary for healing and prevention.
What is the FVPSA grant, and how does it help SOS?
The FVPSA grant, totaling $56,919, supports SOS’s shelter operations, including household supplies and staffing a Shelter Manager.
What is the purpose of the SAVP grant?
The SAVP grant of $11,203 funds SOS’s Child Visitation and Exchange Center, providing safe and supervised spaces for families.
How much funding was distributed across Kansas nonprofits?
Kansas Governor’s office distributed $1.2 million to 20 nonprofits working to prevent domestic violence and support survivors.
