A total of $1 million is coming to Erie County to help battle domestic violence.

The funding is coming from the federal government as part of a new nationwide grant initiative.

The money will help support Buffalo and Erie County’s ‘Be Safe Domestic Violence Victim Advocacy Program,’ a collaborative effort to help some of the most vulnerable people to domestic violence in our community.

“Victims of domestic violence experience unthinkable circumstances and as a result, survivors often endure long-term trauma. Those who are older or have disabilities are particularly vulnerable to abuse,” said Congressman Brian Higgins. “Critical federal funding from the Department of Justice will ensure that abusers are held accountable and victims of all ages, as well as those with cognitive and physical challenges, receive the support and services they need.”  

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911. If you are a victim in crisis seeking assistance or for information about resources in your community, call the New York State Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-942-6906 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

“This grant funding will help the Erie County Probation Department and our partners greatly in providing safety and support to victims of domestic violence while ensuring that offenders are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz said. “The coordinated response that will take place through the BE SAFE program brings stakeholders from around the domestic violence issue together in a collaboration that will raise awareness among all domestic violence system participants. The program recognizes that individuals with cognitive disabilities and the elderly can also be affected and need services, and will put a sharp focus on prosecuting these crimes. I thank Congressman Higgins for working to secure these funds for Erie County.”