( ENSPIRE Community Spotlight ) Karma Cottman, CEO Of Ujima, Announced Application Deadline of January 23, 2025
ENSPIRE Contributor: Gabrielle Maya
Domestic violence is a harsh reality for Black women and girls. Statistics reveal a staggering over 40% of Black women face domestic violence in their lifetimes, and they are significantly more likely to be murdered by men than their white counterparts. These numbers point to a hidden crisis that demands immediate action. Ujima, The National Center on Violence Against Women in the Black Community, is leading the fight by announcing the launch of the Culturally Responsive Victim Services (CRVS) Grant Program in partnership with the National Organization of Sisters of Color Ending Sexual Assault (SCESA). Funded by the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, this program aims to empower organizations that understand the specific needs of Black survivors.
The CRVS Grant Program goes beyond financial support. This program seeks to strengthen culturally specific organizations already serving Black communities disproportionately affected by violence. “Today marks a pivotal step forward in our collective efforts to support survivors of violence within our communities. With the support of the Office for Victims of Crime, we are expanding support for culturally specific organizations across the country,” says Karma Cottman, CEO of Ujima. By investing in culturally competent approaches, survivors will receive care and resources tailored to their experiences, fostering trust and creating a safe space for healing.
The program offers grants of $50,000 or $100,000 to 15 eligible organizations. These funds can be used for various activities, including:
- Expanding existing support programs for survivors
- Addressing housing insecurity, a critical barrier to leaving abusive situations
- Strengthening organizational infrastructure for better service delivery
- Launching public awareness campaigns to break the silence surrounding domestic violence in Black communities.
The application deadline for the CRVS Grant Program is January 23rd, 2025. We encourage organizations dedicated to serving Black survivors of violence to visit www.ujimacommunity.org or www.sisterslead.org. Together, we can build a future where love truly does conquer all, and violence never becomes a part of the story. For more information, visit: www.ujimacommunity.org or www.sisterslead.org.
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