Kennedy, Kerry Announce $1.2 Million for Massachusetts Victims of Crime

Press Release

KENNEDY, KERRY ANNOUNCE $1.2 MILLION FOR MASSACHUSETTS VICTIMS OF CRIME

Senators Edward M. Kennedy and John F. Kerry today announced that Massachusetts will be eligible for $1.2 million in federal funds for victims of crime under President Obama's economic stimulus legislation. $271,000 will be made available by the Department of Justice for financial assistance to victims of crime and $930,000 for other services to the victims of crime.

"During this time of extraordinary economic hardship, these funds are needed more than ever to address the urgent needs of those who have been victimized by crime," said Senator Kennedy. "I'm proud to work with President Obama and Senator Kerry to ensure that these important services remain strong and effective."

"I was a prosecutor in the dark ages when victim assistance programs were still a new idea. Now it's widely accepted that they make a huge difference in helping those whose lives are upended by crime even as we get tough on the criminals. Strengthening this program will help battered women find a safe place to sleep, help prevent hate crimes, provide mental health and social services, and guide victims through our criminal justice system. I am proud to join with President Obama and Senator Kennedy to ensure that our state's crime victims programs are second to none," said Senator Kerry.

The funds will be administered by the Office of Victims of Crime in the U.S. Department of Justice. For more information on these funds please visit:
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/ovc/fund/Recoveryformula.html

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