U.S. Senator Patty Murray convened a roundtable discussion on March 15, 2024, at the King County Sexual Assault Resource Center (KCSARC) in Renton, Washington, to outline plans for utilizing newly secured federal funding. This funding, amounting to $1.75 million, aims to bolster support for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, reflecting Murray’s ongoing commitment to addressing violence against women.
This funding is part of a broader initiative to expand KCSARC’s services, including enhanced therapy offerings and a “train-the-trainer” prevention program. Such measures are essential as the demand for support services continues to rise. During the roundtable, Murray engaged directly with local advocates, who shared insights on how these resources will fortify existing support systems for survivors.
KCSARC’s CEO, Kate Garvey, emphasized the center’s foundational commitment to empowering survivors. “KCSARC was founded by advocates who are fighters, founded by individuals who were tough, strong, gritty. They weren’t ones to be silenced and made sure that survivors were heard,” she remarked to Murray. Currently, KCSARC serves approximately 4,500 individuals annually, with more than 2,000 accessing legal advocacy services last year, half of whom were children, according to Claudia Godina, the center’s bilingual legal advocate supervisor.
Murray, who serves as the vice chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, has also played a critical role in securing a record $720 million for the Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women as part of the appropriations bill for fiscal year 2026. This funding level represents a significant increase, counteracting proposed cuts from the previous administration and enhancing several grant programs aimed at preventing sexual assault and supporting victims.
The legislation not only increases support for KCSARC but also fortifies the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program, which Murray established, along with providing additional resources for other initiatives that aid survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
The roundtable discussion highlighted the urgent need for continued advocacy and funding for programs dedicated to preventing violence and supporting survivors. As local advocates prepare to implement these new resources, the focus remains on fostering a community where survivors are heard and empowered.
This funding initiative marks a pivotal moment for King County as it seeks to enhance the support network for those affected by violence, ensuring that comprehensive services are readily available to meet the growing needs of the community.
