Gov. Ivey awards $1.9 million to aid elderly and disabled abuse victims
Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded $1.9 million
to assist elderly and disabled adults who
are victims of abuse.
The grant to the state Department of
Human Resources will provide in-home or
temporary placement for elderly and disabled
victims who are subjected to abuse, neglect and
exploitation.
“No one should ever be subject to abuse of
any kind, and it is reprehensible that it should
happen to someone who may not have the
physical or mental capabilities to resist or be
aware of those acts,” Gov. Ivey said. “This grant will assure
elderly and disabled adults who are victims of physical and
mental abuse are taken out of harm’s way and receive needed
care.”
The grant will enable the department’s Adult Protective
Services Division to provide several preventative options for
victims who are suff ering from abuse. The funds will help
create safe surroundings for elderly and disabled adults either
by providing in-home care and supervision to
enable victims to remain in their homes after
off enders have been removed or relocating the
victims to nursing homes or assisted living
facilities. Both measures are temporary until
more permanent solutions are found.
The Alabama Department of Economic
and Community Aff airs is administering the
grant from funds made available by the U.S.
Department of Justice.
“Abuse of the elderly or disabled can take
many forms from neglect to verbal or physical
abuse and needs to be reported when it is suspected,” ADECA
Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to join with
Gov. Ivey and the Alabama Department of Human Resources to
provide solutions for these victims.”
ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support
law enforcement, victim programs, economic development,
water resource management, energy conservation and
recreation.