Assumption Public Safety Awarded Continued VAWA STOP Grant Funds
Assumption University’s Department of Public Safety has been awarded continuation funding for a third year from the Massachusetts Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Services, Training, Officers, Prosecutors (STOP) Formula Grant program to help develop and strengthen initiatives for the prevention of and response to incidents of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking on campus.
The Healey-Driscoll administration announced the allocation of funding to 42 organizations, including Assumption’s Department of Public Safety, on November 25. The funding will last through 2026, when applications for funding will open again.
“This grant funding reaffirms our deep commitment to ensuring a future where every individual can live with dignity, respect, and without fear of abuse,” said Governor Maura Healey in the release. “By investing in programs that support healing and justice, these grants will provide essential resources for survivors of domestic and sexual violence, human trafficking, and stalking. Professionals across sectors will be empowered to deliver trauma-informed, accessible services to help survivors rebuild and thrive.”
Since 2015, Assumption’s Department of Public Safety has partnered with Pathways for Change, Inc., a local organization dedicated to finding solutions to end sexual violence, to provide free and confidential support for those who have been impacted by sexual violence via a Campus Advocate program. The funding from the VAWA STOP grant program has helped to advance this partnership.
“Sexual violence results in situations that are usually very complex for the survivor,” said Chief Rebecca Gagne of the Assumption University Police Department, who works in close partnership with the Campus Advocate. “Our Campus Advocate program has ensured that survivors have free and confidential support from an autonomous Campus Advocate and access to resource referrals to supports that are responsive to their unique circumstances within a university setting.”
Assumption’s Campus Advocate can be reached by survivors for assistance reporting violence, navigating Title IX requirements, and for general support during these difficult situations. The Campus Advocate is available year-round, 24/7, either via the Pathways for Change, Inc. hotline or the office on campus so that services may be provided whenever survivors are in need.