Licking County Commissioners have approved a $40,000 grant to Woodlands Serving Central Ohio. The decision, made on November 13, aims to fund a domestic violence victim advocate.
According to the commissioners' meeting agenda, the funding is sourced from the One Ohio Opioid Settlement. This allocation aligns with a memorandum of understanding in the One Ohio Fund Disbursement Agreement. It is deemed appropriate as it aids the county and its residents in recovering from the opioid epidemic and its associated economic impacts.
Commissioner Timothy E. Bubb proposed dedicating the One Opioid settlement funds for this purpose, with unanimous support from fellow commissioners.
The Woodlands website states that its Outpatient Services Department offers services tailored to meet the physical, psychological, and emotional needs of individuals facing challenges. The Center for New Beginnings provides safe emergency shelter and various services to victims of domestic violence within the community. The organization is affiliated with both the Ohio Domestic Violence Network and Ohio Mental Health & Addiction Services, which focus on promoting wellness and recovery.
Woodlands further outlines that New Beginnings was established in 1983 with a commitment against using violence as a means of resolving difficulties. It emphasizes that domestic violence affects all family members, genders, and socioeconomic levels, asserting that victims should not be blamed for their partners' actions. Education on domestic violence is seen as crucial in breaking the cycle of violence and encouraging victims to pursue safe, independent lives free from abuse.
