Sexual assault and child abuse advocacy center to provide new resources for survivors PADUCAH, Ky. (Jan. 13, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear and Department for Local Government (DLG) Commissioner Dennis Keene today announced a $360,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to McCracken County for Lotus, an advocacy and support center for survivors of assault and abuse.
The funding will further Lotus’s efforts in healing and recovery for survivors of sexual assault and child abuse.
Lotus will use the grant to purchase 2.2 acres of land adjacent to their existing facility for the creation of an outdoor preserve. They will develop green spaces specifically designed to meet the physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs of survivors and families to provide enhanced tranquility and therapeutic experiences.
“I believe we should provide survivors of assault and abuse every resource we can to aid them in their healing and recovery,” said Gov. Beshear. “Lotus is doing critical work in McCracken County and this new preserve will provide numerous survivors a safe space to heal.”
The outdoor preserve will include natural habitats, therapeutic and sensory gardens, and walking trails.
“The Lotus outdoor sanctuary will be a tremendous resource in Paducah and the Purchase area,” said DLG Commissioner Keene. “I’m very happy DLG and local officials are supporting such an important cause and our survivors.”
McCracken County Judge-Executive Craig Clymer added, “These grant funds will be an invaluable asset to Lotus as it continues to strengthen its mission of providing essential services to the victims of child abuse and sexual assault.”
Senator Danny Carroll expressed gratitude for the funding.
“The significance of this announcement cannot be overstated,” said Senator Carroll. “As a former assistant chief with the Paducah Police Department, I am pleased to know that victims deserving of healing will be beneficiaries of this important funding. We are all grateful for the invaluable work done by Lotus to support survivors and strengthen our communities in the Purchase Region of Kentucky.”
Rep. Randy Bridges said, “If any organization deserves this grant, it is Lotus. This organization provides a tremendous service to some of our most vulnerable members of the community, and I am pleased that they will now have a new outdoor sanctuary to enjoy.”
About the Community Development Block Grant ProgramThe CDBG program, overseen by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, provides assistance to communities for use in revitalizing neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities, providing infrastructure and/or improving community facilities and services.
About the Department for Local GovernmentDLG is an arm of the Office of the Governor dedicated to supporting local officials and communities. To learn more about opportunities available through DLG, visit kydlgweb.ky.gov.
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