A more than $80,000 grant awarded to the Escambia County Commission will help support programs that assist domestic violence victims and prosecute offenders.

The funds are part of a $43,450 grant for eight Alabama counties.

“Domestic violence has a lasting effect on victims, and they deserve professional support for overcoming the trauma as well as advocates to help them pursue justice in the legal system,” Gov. Robert Bentley said. “I commend the work of these south Alabama organizations for helping those who need it most and for prosecuting those responsible for abuse so that they can’t cause any more harm.”

The Escambia County Commission is using the $83,790 grant to continue the efforts of the Domestic Violence Unit, a joint venture of the county sheriff’s office and the district attorney’s office. The unit works closely with law enforcement agencies, health care providers and victim service organizations in the county to help increase public awareness of victim’s rights, prosecute domestic violence cases and reduce violent crime against women in Escambia County. Local matching funds of $27,930 will supplement the grant.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is managing the grants from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Justice.

“These local partnerships are key to ensuring those who have suffered from abuse have access to the support services they need to begin the recovery process,” ADECA Director Jim Byard Jr. said. “ADECA is pleased to continue support of these important programs.”

ADECA manages a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, economic development, infrastructure upgrades, recreation, energy conservation, water resource management, job training and career development.