SARC Awarded $600K Federal Grant To Serve Victims

WASHINGTON, DC — The Department of Justice has awarded a $600,000 grant to the Sexual Assault/Spouse Abuse Resource Center (SARC) in Bel Air, according to Congressman Andy Harris. He commended the Department of Justice's Office of Violence Against Women for awarding the grant to the Harford County organization.

SARC, which started as a grassroots movement in 1978, provides support each year for approximately 2,000 victims of domestic violence, sexual violence, child abuse and stalking.

"Improving the safety and security of women in our community is a top priority," Harris said in a statement announcing SARC's grant award Tuesday, Sept. 10. "As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I applaud the DOJ’s decision to fund this resource center for survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking in Harford County."

The grant will go toward the following at SARC, according to a statement from Harris' office:

• Brief advice and counsel to 700 survivors annually
• Legal representation for protective orders and protective order modification cases
• Legal representation in matters involving immigration, divorce and/or custody
• Assistance and referrals for non-family law legal services
• Court accompaniment and court advocacy

"I strongly support efforts to assist victims of sexual assault and spousal abuse," Harris said.

The grant will be provided under the Department of Justice's Office of Violence Against Women Legal Assistance for Victims Grant Program, which supports direct legal services to victims in legal matters relating to or arising out of abuse or violence, at minimal or no cost to the victims.

All services provided by SARC are free, according to the organization.

SARC operates a 24-hour helpline, runs a shelter for victims; and offers counseling, crisis intervention, legal representation and advocacy services.