Rep. Leger Fernández Welcomes Funds to Support Survivors of Domestic Violence

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Leger Fernández welcomes the announcement that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will award $200 million to support domestic violence survivors and their children. New Mexico is set to receive $738,079 in additional funding through this program. 

These funds were provided by the American Rescue Plan Act and championed by the Congresswoman in the House Committee on Education and Labor. 

“The pandemic exacerbated multiple crises across our communities. As we stayed home to protect ourselves and our loved ones, domestic violence survivors were forced to stay indoors with their abusers, giving up their ability to seek out help. 

“To truly recover from this pandemic, we must promote healthy communities and healthy families. I’m proud to have supported the funding included in the American Rescue Plan Act to help survivors of domestic violence and will continue to highlight the availability of these funds so New Mexican survivors, their children, and organizations that help them can get the resources they need.” 

Background

The Department of Health and Human Services’ Family Violence Prevention and Service Program will distribute the funds to states, territories, and Tribes. Funding will support local organizations that provide immediate shelter and related assistance for victims of domestic violence and their children.  

In addition, the Eight Northern Indian Pueblos Council, San Felipe, Isleta, and Kewa are all directly receiving supplemental Family Violence Prevention and Service Program funding.

Get more information on the American Rescue Plan funding here. 

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