DOJ Grant to Strengthen Campus Services for Victims of Violence, Stalking

The University of La Verne is set to receive a $499,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to create a comprehensive program to address domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking on campus that is grounded in culturally specific strategies. 

The Strengthening Culturally Specific Campus’ Approaches grant will fund efforts to restructure existing support, services and training around domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking under the Student Outreach and Support program.  

The national Office on Violence Against Women created the new initiative and grant opportunity to support Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic Serving Institutions, and Tribal Colleges and Universities to serve the needs and address the unique issues and challenges in preventing and responding to diverse communities. The University of La Verne, which is a federally recognized Minority- and Hispanic-Serving Institution, is one of 12 institutions to receive funding this year.   

“Every day, a vast network of dedicated individuals helps domestic violence survivors access multiple pathways to safety, justice, and healing,” said Rosie Hidalgo, director of the Office on Violence Against Women. “There is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing domestic violence. These funds will enable communities to increase capacity and strengthen a coordinated community approach to prevent and address violence in more comprehensive ways tailored to their communities.” 

 According to national studies, partner and sexual violence is often underreported and victims of color or minority populations are less likely to seek services offered by universities. 

Campus partners include the following offices: Title IX, CAPS, SOS, Campus Safety, Student Health Services, the University Chaplain, and Director of Housing and Residential Life. Community partners also include Project Sister, House of Ruth and Pomona Valley Hospital. Under this initiative all partners will work together and support campus Coordinated Community Response Team awareness, efforts, and education events.