Funds for Family Violence Prevention Specialists Approved

Concord, NH – Today, the Executive Council voted to approve $2,464,088 in funding for the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence (NHCADSV) in support of a statewide program which seeks to improve responses and support to survivors of domestic violence and their children.

The funding supports the work of fourteen embedded Family Violence Prevention Specialists who work with families and the Department of Health and Human Services to mitigate risk and collaborate with Child Protective Service Workers in cases where there is risk for domestic violence. The funding approved today also supports continued access to advocacy and crisis supports on a 24-hour per day basis, including expanded safe shelter and housing resources, as well as expanded technology for online chats and text services.

"Our first priority must always be to keep victims safe and hold offenders accountable, " said Governor Chris Sununu. "The funds approved today are critical to ensuring resources are in place to minimize risk for domestic violence before it occurs and ensure emergency supports are available to respond immediately when needed. "

"This continued funding ensures children who have been exposed to violence in their homes receive support services as soon as possible, " said Amanda Grady Sexton, Director of Public Affairs for the NH Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. "Traumatic experiences in a person's childhood, such as exposure to domestic violence, can place people at an increased risk for chronic health problems, mental illness, and substance use in adulthood. It is vital that we recognize how childhood trauma can impact a person across their lifespan, and the services provided by FVPSs are critical to breaking that generational cycle of abuse. We are grateful the state prioritized this funding and understands how essential the FVPS program is in our work to support young Granite Staters and their families. "

The total contract, including the funds approved today, amounts to $13,077,413 and is in effect through June 30, 2025.