Helping Domestic Violence Victims Achieve Self-Sufficiency

The Congressionally Recommended Awards Program, authorized by the Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 2010 (Pub. L. 111-117), 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 recommended by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-117, 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 2010 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY2010 Department of Justice Appropriations Act.

Homestretch will use its FY2010 Congressional award to support ten units dedicated to transitional housing and comprehensive services for families that are homeless due to domestic violence, human trafficking and/or sexual assault. The project will provide assistance to homeless families in Fairfax County, the City of Falls Church and the City of Fairfax, Virginia. In addition to housing, the families will be provided a wide range of intensive services designed to help them achieve safety, financial independence and long term stability.

NCA/NCF