Established by the Violence Against Women Act of 1994, the STOP Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Program seeks to develop and implement law enforcement and prosecution strategies to effectively decrease violent crimes against women. These grants also help to develop and enhance services provided to the victims of violent crimes.
In Florida, the Department of Children and Families is responsible for coordinating VAWA funds with local agencies. Funds through VAWA provide systematic and sustained focus on permanent systems change within the Florida criminal justice system, while simultaneously developing a comprehensive network of domestic violence and sexual assault victim service advocates and programs throughout Florida communities.
In Florida, VAWA funds may be used for multiple purposes, including:
Allowable costs include:
Ineligible activities and cost items include, but are not limited to:
The FY 2019 allocation to the state of Florida was $8,297,990. Grants are awarded directly to the State. Funds are then competitively awarded to local agencies. Individual award amounts vary. Cost sharing/matching of 25% is required. Project periods will extend up to 12-months.