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Recognizing that child abuse is a persistent and pervasive issue, Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded seven grants totaling nearly $1 million to agencies that serve victims in 16 south Alabama counties.

“Children deserve to be raised in nurturing and supportive homes. It is, therefore, critically important that we make resources available to those who have experienced abuse,” Gov. Ivey said. “I am grateful to these nonprofit organizations for working to help young victims recover and overcome the trauma of abuse.”

The following agencies have received grants to support child abuse response and prevention:

Covington County Child Advocacy Center Inc. will use its $78,386 in grant funds to provide forensic interview, mental health assistance and advocacy services to victims within the county.

Escambia County Regional Child Advocacy Center has received a $57,758 grant to serve victims in Conecuh, Escambia and Monroe counties.

Southeast Alabama Child Advocacy Center has received $219,482 to assist victims and raise awareness in Dale, Geneva, Henry and Houston counties.

Exchange Center for Child Abuse Prevention will use $151,823 in grant funds to offer a variety of services, including individual, family and group therapy in Barbour, Coffee, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston and Pike counties.

CARE House Inc. has received $99,840 to serve residents of Baldwin County, providing services to help victims heal and programs to raise public awareness of abuse and of the professional assistance available to victims.

Regional Child Advocacy Center Inc. has received $78,386, which will be used primarily to serve victims of sexual abuse in Choctaw, Clarke and Washington counties.

Family Counseling Center of Mobile Inc. will use its $298,805 grant to fund its services to victims, including counseling, assistance with needs, referrals to additional community organizations and education in Mobile County.

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

“Child abuse has a long-term negative impact not only on individuals but also the larger community, affecting quality of life and economic prosperity,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “This is important work to help victims and their families recover and rebuild their lives, and Gov. Ivey and I will continue to support those who do it.”

ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, victim programs, economic development, water resource management, energy conservation and recreation.