Domestic Violence Advocacy Project

The Congressionally Selected Awards Program, authorized by the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009 (Pub. L. 111-8), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects selected by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-8, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 09 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Act.

New Hampshire Legal Assistance will use the Fiscal Year 2009 Congressionally Selected Award to fund the Domestic Violence Advocacy Project (DVAP) to address the critical legal needs of low-income domestic violence victims in New Hampshire who are unable to obtain the extended civil legal services they need to escape abuse because the legal resources are very limited and the scope of the need is overwhelming. The DVAP is a collaborative effort between NH Legal Assistance, Pro Bono/DOVE and the state's 14 local crisis centers. The Project's target population is low-income abuse victims throughout New Hampshire, with a particular focus on underserved groups including: (1) victims located in the more rural sections of the state, (2) minorities, immigrants, and refugees, (3) persons with limited English proficiency, and (4) persons living with disabilities. The project is also trying to help meet the needs of their growing minority, immigrant, and refugee populations. Many minorities and immigrants face cultural and linguistic barriers when seeking help with domestic violence related issues.

NCA/NCF