MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WTVA) -- The State of Alabama is providing grants to help local organizations who make first contact with victims of domestic violence and rape.
The Alabama Coalition Against Rape will recieve two grants totaling $326,578.
The money will be used to make sure the people are trained to provide the correct response to a victim's needs.
State officials say the money will be used for education programs at schools, churches, civic meetings and hospitals.
The focus will be on how to spot warning signs, prevent assaults and refer victims to receive the help they need.
The Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence will receive a $145,000 grant to help law enforcement, health care, courts, and domestic violence shelters improve their response to domestic and dating violence.
Turning Point will also receive $190,898 to assist domestic violence victims in nine west Alabama counties, including Lamar and Pickens County.
The grants were announced Wednesday by Governor Robert Bentley.
