Medical Advocacy and Outreach Program

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.

The WINGS Program, Inc. is a social service agency that provides housing and services to women and children who are survivors of domestic violence and/or homelessness. WINGS has been providing services in northwest suburban Chicago since 1985 and operates a transitional housing program. The WINGS Medical Advocacy and Outreach Program (MAOP) staff conduct trainings for medical and law enforcement personnel in techniques to better identify victims of domestic violence. The 24-hour hotline complements other WINGS outreach efforts, including MAOP, by providing a resource for identified victims to find assistance. The purpose of hotline is to identify victims of domestic violence living in northwest suburban Chicago and provide them with information and access to resources.

NCA/NCF