We are currently remodeling

Skip Navigation

Main Navigation Bar (Deactivated)

Health & Wellness

UCP’s Health and Wellness Channel provides information and resources relating to persons living with disabilities.

Go back to top

Health & Wellness

Women with Disabilities

Doggett Announces $800,000 for SafePlace

Contact:
Michelle Milford
(512) 916-5921

Federal Money to Assist Both Older and Disabled Victims of Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence

Washington, DC, August 19, 2002 - U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-Travis County) announced $800,000 dollars for SafePlace (Travis County Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Survival Center). The money will be used to fund two important initiatives aimed at stopping abuse and sexual assault of older individuals or individuals with disabilities and to address additional obstacles women with disabilities face when they become victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking. "SafePlace is committed to building a safer Central Texas and to ensuring that its fight to end violence against women includes all women," Doggett said. "These funds will help SafePlace implement and expand important training and education programs that address the unique needs of different victims."

SafePlace will use the money to support its practice of abuse prevention and intervention for women with disabilities. Further, the funds will provide training for law enforcement, prosecution and other criminal justice professionals.

SafePlace will collaborate with many organizations, including Arc of the U.S., American Council of the Blind, United Cerebral Palsy Associations, Deaf Abused Women and Children Advocacy Services.

"Both through our work at SafePlace and the available research, we know that sexual and domestic violence against people with disabilities occurs at alarming rates. Even worse, many crime victims with disabilities face barriers in accessing the criminal justice system or crisis services," said Kelly White, SafePlace Executive Director. "These grants are powerful opportunities for SafePlace to provide leadership in enhancing community response to sexual and domestic violence against people with disabilities across Texas and the nation."

SafePlace is a comprehensive domestic and sexual violence victims service agency located in Austin, Texas. The money is provided through the U.S. Department of Justice.