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NOVA is receiving a major boost in support for its victim advocacy and violence prevention efforts after securing nearly $182,000 in state grant funding while also raising more than $150,000 during its largest annual fundraiser.
The Bucks County-based nonprofit, which provides comprehensive services for victims of crime, recently announced it was awarded a $181,697 grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development Local Share Account Program.
The grant, administered locally through the Bucks County Redevelopment Authority, will fund facility improvements and security upgrades at NOVA’s locations in Jamison, Fairless Hills and Perkasie.
According to the organization, the funding will help strengthen building infrastructure and improve security systems to ensure victims can access services in safe, confidential and trauma-informed environments. Officials said the improvements will also enhance safety for staff and volunteers who provide services throughout Bucks County.
“NOVA is deeply grateful to local legislators who supported this funding request and advocated for resources that strengthen services for victims in Bucks County,” Executive Director Penelope Ettinger said in a statement. NOVA specifically thanked state Sens. Frank Farry, Steve Santarsiero and Jarrett Coleman, along with state Reps. Jim Prokopiak, Kristin Marcell and Shelby Labs for supporting the funding request.
The announcement comes shortly after NOVA hosted its annual “Game Night Gala” fundraiser at The Warrington, where more than 200 guests helped raise approximately $150,000 to support the nonprofit’s free and confidential victim services and violence prevention programs.
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The event featured live music from pop-rock band The Zone, trivia contests and game-themed entertainment, while also highlighting NOVA’s ongoing work supporting victims of crime across Bucks County.
Services provided by the organization include a 24-hour victim helpline, forensic examinations, legal advocacy, trauma-focused therapy, child-centered abuse response services and violence prevention education programs offered in schools and communities throughout the county.
“NOVA is deeply grateful to local legislators who supported this funding request and advocated for resources that strengthen services for victims in Bucks County,” Executive Director Penelope Ettinger said in a statement.
NOVA specifically thanked state Sens. Frank Farry, Steve Santarsiero and Jarrett Coleman, along with state Reps. Jim Prokopiak, Kristin Marcell and Shelby Labs for supporting the funding request.
“Gala Game Night was both engaging and meaningful — from Family Feud and trivia to the powerful words shared by our client speaker and emcee,” Ettinger said. “Together we netted over $150,000 to support NOVA’s work with victims and families across Bucks County.”
Founded in 1974, NOVA serves individuals impacted by crime who live, work or worship in Bucks County and provides many of its services free of charge. The organization also partners with schools, law enforcement agencies and community groups on prevention education and professional training initiatives focused on violence prevention, trauma response and victim advocacy.
Several regional businesses and organizations supported the fundraiser, including lead sponsor Parx Casino, along with M&T Bank, Wilmington Trust, American Heritage Credit Union, HUB International and Swartz, Culleton & Ferris.
This article appears courtesy of a content share agreement between LevittownNow.com, NewtownPANow.com, and NewHopeFreePress.com and Central Bucks Now. To read more stories like this, visit https://www.centralbucksnews.com.
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