BUFFALO, N.Y. -- The Family Justice Center of Erie County and Crisis Services, two agencies which provide services and support for victims of domestic violence, will use $50,000 in public protection funds toward helping people in trouble secure an order of protection, counseling, and crisis intervention.

"I am a woman, I am a mother, I am a college graduate, I am a professional, and I was also a victim of domestic abuse. It can happen to anyone," said Clarissa, a survivor of domestic abuse who says, thanks to the Family Justice Center, she was able to navigate the difficult legal waters of a domestic violence situation. 

"When you're going through a situation like abuse or trying to figure out what your next step is, it's overwhelming, it's embarrassing, it's upsetting, and to be able to go in the 'court in a closet,' as they call it, it's easier because you don't have to go downtown and worry about how to file paperwork or what's next."

Each agency will receive $25,000, as announced by state Sen. Chris Jacobs.