(KAIR)--More than $6.4 million dollars is allocated for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Programs and Children’s Advocacy Centers in communities across Kansas.

That word is delivered in a news release issued by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly Wednesday.

Nearly $89,000 is earmarked for the Leavenworth-based Alliance Against Family Violence, which provides service to Atchison. The agreement to utilize the service was approved earlier this month by the Atchison City Commission following the disbandment of the former DoVES organization.

According to the release, the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault funds support the enhancement and expansion of sexual and domestic violence programs, with the monies used for support services, outreach and training for community-based programs. The funds also are used to leverage federal funds to help expand services and improve responses across the state.

More than $5 million was allocated for domestic violence organizations based in 19 Kansas Counties.

A local Children’s Advocacy Center also earns funds, with nearly $43,000 being provided to the First Judicial District CASA Association, based in Leavenworth County. Atchison County is also served by the association.

The release says the Children’s Advocacy Centers are child-focused, community-oriented programs coordinating investigation and intervention services for abused children by bringing together professionals and agencies in a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary model.

 The CAC grant program provides funding to hire and train staff to provide sexual and physical abuse victims with child-sensitive forensic interviews; advocacy services for victims and non-offending caregivers; and coordinate multi-disciplinary case review teams and efforts across systems to enhance services.

More than $940,000 is allocated for CAC use in 16 Kansas counties through the funding awards.

The total funds are provided through the 2020 State General Fund Grant Programs.