Strengthening communities by providing human services: VOCA, Weatherization Plus Health
The Department of Commerce recently awarded $8,450,105 to 16 tribes in Washington to serve victims of crime.
A study funded by the National Institute of Justice found that American Indian and Alaska Native women and men suffer violence at an alarmingly high rate. More than four in five American Indian and Alaska Native women and men have experienced violence in their lifetime.
Funding for the grants comes from the U.S. Department of Justice, which administers the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Crime Victims Fund. These grants will enhance current services, improve coordination of child and youth programs, and add parenting support services. Services will also be expanded for the elderly and vulnerable adult victims of crime.
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Commerce’s already successful Weatherization Program is now improving the health of Washington’s citizens through its new Weatherization Plus Health (Wx+H) program.
In addition to helping people lower their energy bills, the program can now help people stay healthy by addressing issues like asthma, mold and tripping hazards. During the current biennium, the local network of weatherization providers will be working with over 700 households through this innovative program.
The Wx+H program is just one more way Commerce strengthens communities by helping people address their most basic needs.