Executive Orders on both the state and federal level have left organizations like the West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence and victim service providers throughout our state confused about how to continue supporting victims while also following new mandates.
Victims of domestic violence are supported by funds appropriated by state and federal legislators. This funding is then disbursed via grants. However, some of these critical grants are now being reviewed for potential cuts, and certain requirements within the current fiscal cycle’s grants contradict the new directives introduced by both state and federal Executive Orders. It has put us in the position of not knowing how to comply with all the requirements, since some now conflict. While we await clarification by our state and federal governments on the contradictory requirements, victims still have a need for services.
We are still able to operate right now because a court order has temporarily halted the initial federal funding freeze, so for the moment, federal funds are still accessible. However, whether shelter and support for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, stalking, human trafficking, and more will continue in the long term is unknown.
Please help support West Virginia victims at this critical time.