Morgan Child Advocacy Center receives grant to aid child abuse victims
rebekah.yancey @hartselleenquirer.com
The Morgan Child Advocacy Center (MCAC) has been awarded a $147,474 grant as part of a $1.27 million funding initiative aimed at supporting agencies that assist victims of child abuse across Alabama. The grant, announced by Gov. Kay Ivey, is part of a broader effort to provide professional care and assistance to children affected by various forms of abuse in 20 counties statewide.
“Children are our most precious resource, and it is crucial we ensure those who have been victimized receive support and help with healing,” Gov. Ivey said. “I commend these organizations for providing timely and professional assistance to children during such a difficult time.” The Morgan Child Advocacy Center is among eight agencies receiving grants that will be used to offer a wide range of services to children who have suffered from physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, child pornography and bullying. Additionally, the center will continue to serve children who have been affected by homicide or teen dating violence.
Services provided by MCAC, and similar organizations, include personal advocacy, emotional support, safety services, assistance with compensation claims, and referrals to other resources.
MCAC executive director Misty Cowger said the funding received by ADECA, which accounts for approximately 37 percent of the agency’s budget, enables the agency provide critical services to children who have experienced abuse and neglect. “As a nonprofit, the CAC relies on funding from local municipalities, including the City of Hartselle, City of Decatur, and the Morgan County Commission, United Way, donations and fundraising efforts to continue our mission,” Cowger said. The MCAC served a total of 726 unduplicated clients in 2022-23, with 17 percent of these services provided to children and families residing in the City of Hartselle.
“We are deeply grateful for ADECA’s continued support in helping us fulfill our mission to provide help and healing to children in our community,” Cowger added.
The grants are being administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) with funds from the U.S. Department of Justice.
Kenneth Boswell, Director ofADECA, expressed his appreciation for the work done by these organizations. “These grants will help ensure children who are victims of abuse and other mistreatment have somewhere to turn for compassionate care,” Boswell said. “ADECA joins Gov. Ivey in supporting these organizations that offer resources and expertise to help child victims recover.” For more information about the Morgan Child Advocacy Center and its services, visit morgancac.org or contact the center directly at (256) 355-1908.
