MARSHALL, MN — Victim service programs across Minnesota are preparing for funding reductions that could impact services for survivors of violence, including those in southwest Minnesota.
Organizations were recently notified that funding distributed through the Minnesota Office of Justice Programs will decrease by about 20 percent in the next funding cycle. Advocates say the cuts could affect critical support provided to individuals experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, and trafficking.
WoMen’s Rural Advocacy Programs (WRAP), which serves Lincoln, Lyon, Redwood, and Yellow Medicine counties, provides crisis response, emergency shelter, hospital and courtroom advocacy, transportation, and ongoing support. In rural areas, programs like WRAP are often the primary resource for survivors seeking immediate assistance.
Advocates also work closely with law enforcement, healthcare providers, and courts during investigations, medical care, and legal proceedings. Officials say reductions in advocacy services could place additional strain on those systems while limiting support available to victims.
“Victim advocacy programs are a critical part of the safety net in our communities,” said Becci ten Bensel, executive director of WRAP. “When funding is reduced, it doesn’t just affect our programs, it affects the safety and support available to survivors during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.”
Advocates from across the state recently gathered at the State Capitol to raise awareness about the funding changes and their potential impact. Without additional funding, some programs may need to reduce staffing or scale back services.
