One hundred fifteen victim service organizations across Michigan receive federal grant funds to provide services to those facing child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse or human trafficking.
Some of these providers say federal funds are drying up.
“Funding is vital for the safety of domestic violence victims, victims of stalking, dating violence and sexual assault,” said Rachel VerWys, CEO of Safe Haven Ministries.
Her Grand Rapids-based support center provides services for individuals and families facing domestic abuse, human trafficking or exploitation.
VerWys said groups like hers across the state are struggling to operate amid potential reductions in federal dollars through the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) fund, which uses federal court fees and other fines to fu