Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded eight grants totaling about $267,000 to organizations across south Alabama, including key funding for services in Baldwin County that assist victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking.

“Victims of these heinous crimes deserve a safe haven, professional care and a determined pursuit of justice,” Ivey said in a news release. “These funds will also support prevention and awareness initiatives aimed at reducing future crimes.”

In Baldwin County, Baldwin Family Violence Shelter, known as The Lighthouse, will receive two grants totaling nearly $60,000. One award of $25,898 will support crisis intervention, child advocacy and counseling for residents of the shelter and other clients in Baldwin and Escambia counties. An additional $34,110 will fund shelter operations, support groups and referrals for domestic violence victims in Baldwin, Conecuh, Escambia and Monroe counties.

The Lighthouse serves as a primary resource for victims in Baldwin County, where advocates say demand for emergency shelter, legal advocacy and counseling remains steady. Services often include safety planning, assistance with protective orders and coordination with law enforcement and courts.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants using funds provided by the U.S. Department of Justice. ADECA oversees a range of programs statewide supporting law enforcement, economic development, energy conservation and water resource management.

“These programs and organizations provide critical services that communities depend on,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to join Gov. Ivey in support of the professionals who care for victims and those who investigate and prosecute cases.”

Other south Alabama organizations receiving funding include the Family Counseling Center of Mobile, which was awarded $40,110 to assist victims of sexual assault and elder abuse or neglect in Clarke, Mobile and Washington counties.

Penelope House Inc. will receive $37,000 to provide shelter, protection and support services to victims of domestic violence and their children in Choctaw, Clarke, Mobile and Washington counties.

The Mobile County Commission was awarded $39,710 to support prosecution, investigation and victim services in domestic violence cases.

Camille Place, a nonprofit based in south Alabama, will receive $50,110 to provide housing, therapy, education and guidance to victims of human trafficking across the state.

The House of Ruth was awarded $40,110 to operate a 24-hour hotline, provide shelter and offer court advocacy for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Barbour, Bullock, Coffee, Covington, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston and Pike counties.