The Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS) has allocated nearly $4 million in federal emergency shelter and supportive services grants to aid domestic violence victims and their dependents. Among the recipients are New Directions in Knox County and The Woodlands in Licking County.

According to a Facebook post by the OCJS, 67 projects across 42 counties will benefit from this funding. These projects aim to assist community-based, non-profit organizations in providing emergency shelter and supportive services for victims of family violence, domestic violence, dating violence, and their dependents.

New Directions Domestic Abuse Shelter of Knox County received a grant amounting to $53,485.34, as indicated by the OCJS grant awards list. The Woodlands Serving Central Ohio, Inc., located in Licking County, was awarded $63,867.01.

An OCJS news release said that the funding is intended to support the establishment, maintenance, and expansion of programs that prevent incidents of family violence. It also aims to provide immediate shelter and supportive services while ensuring access to community-based programs for victims and their dependents. Additionally, it seeks to offer specialized services for children exposed to such violence and support underserved populations as well as racial and ethnic minority groups.

The awards will cover one year of program funding from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025.

New Directions mentioned on its website that it offers resources aimed at ensuring safety, healing, and freedom for individuals who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking. The organization also provides preventive education to foster an informed and supportive community. Individuals seeking assistance can contact an advocate at New Directions at 740-397-4357.