LEPC Announces Funding to Combat Substance Abuse, Support Violence Against Women Initiatives, and Assist Crime Victims

The Virgin Islands Law Enforcement Planning Commission (LEPC) recently unveiled a series of funding opportunities aimed at tackling key community issues such as substance abuse in prisons, violence against women, and victim assistance. These initiatives are supported by the U.S. Department of Justice, as revealed in recent announcements from Government House.

The LEPC is committed to enhancing criminal justice efforts through effective collaborations, expert advice, and resource provision, aiming to foster safer communities across the Virgin Islands. According to one of the statements, these efforts reflect the agency’s dedication to community safety and justice.

Among the funding opportunities is the Federal Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) for State Prisoners Program for fiscal year 2019. The program focuses on the development and implementation of substance use disorder treatment programs within state correctional facilities. It offers three types of program funding: residential, jail-based, or aftercare, with a preference for proposals that include partnerships with community-based treatment facilities.

In parallel, the LEPC has also rolled out the Violence Against Women STOP Formula Grants for the fiscal years 2021 and 2022. These grants support private non-profits and government agencies in the Virgin Islands that provide direct services to victims of violent crimes, including domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. The initiative encourages programs that create comprehensive, victim-sensitive strategies to confront violence against women and ensure accountability for perpetrators.

Moreover, the LEPC announced the availability of the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Assistance Formula Grants for the same period. These grants aim to aid non-profit victim service providers and government agencies in delivering essential services that help crime victims recover. Funded services include crisis counseling, therapy, group treatment or support, and emergency legal advocacy. The funds originate from the Crime Victims Fund, created in 1984, which collects federal criminal fines, penalties, and forfeitures to support victim services.

The deadline for applications for all three grants is June 3. Applicants must submit several crucial documents for their proposals to be considered. For further information, potential applicants can contact Mr. Smith at moleto.smith@lepc.vi.gov or call (340) 774-6400.