Hinds Today

The U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) has allocated $900,000 to the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. The funds are intended to aid victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, according to an announcement by U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee.

The grant comes from the OVW Tribal Governments Program, which aims to help tribes develop and improve governmental strategies for reducing violent crimes against Indian women and increasing their safety.

The financial support will be directed towards the Family Violence and Victims Program, part of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians Tribal Government. This program provides shelter and various support services for Choctaw women who have experienced domestic violence or sexual assault.

“This DOJ grant will assist the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians with reducing domestic violence and other violent crime through collaboration with community organizations, tribal law enforcement, and prosecutors,” stated U.S. Attorney Gee.

Chief Cyrus Ben of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians highlighted the significance of this funding: “The Family Violence and Victim Services program, a vital initiative within our Department of Family & Community Services, plays a crucial role in supporting individuals during their most vulnerable moments. This grant will enable us to sustain and enhance our efforts in the community. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Department of Justice for this generous award, which allows us to continue our important work.”

For more information about the Office on Violence Against Women, visit www.justice.gov/ovw.