Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced a total of $1,117,794 for Next Step Domestic Violence Project in Ellsworth and Caring Unlimited Corporation in Sanford.  The funding was awarded through the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Legal Assistance for Victims Grant Program and Improving Criminal Justice Responses Program. 

“Survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence should have access to every resource available to ensure their safety,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement.  “Next Step Violence Project and Caring Unlimited have each spent decades working to coordinate local programs, improve awareness, and identify gaps in services to prevent sexual assault and domestic violence.  We are pleased that these investments will help both coalitions continue their vital work to protect victims in Maine.”

“Next Step is thrilled and relieved to receive this grant, which will sustain our ability to provide pro bono legal representation to survivors of domestic violence in Washington and Hancock Counties for the next three years,” said Dorathy Martel, Executive Director of Next Step Domestic Violence Project.  “Our attorneys work closely with domestic violence advocates to ensure that safety planning is at the center of every interaction, and this approach saves lives.”

The funding was awarded as follows: