"We appreciate the Governor's swift response to our initial outreach, and while these dollars have helped close some of the immediate funding gap, they unfortunately do not address the devastating cuts still facing many long-standing victim service programs across New York State. Beyond the financial impact, these cuts threaten the continuity of essential services, disruptions that are ultimately measured in human lives. There is no comprehensive plan to address the loss of these services or to assess the short- and long-term consequences for survivors and their families. Meanwhile, demand for services has skyrocketed across New York State in recent years, leaving an already stretched network of victim service providers struggling to meet even the most immediate crisis needs. Survivors cannot afford gaps in safety, support, or access to services, and neither can our communities. We must ensure that the resources needed to sustain these critical programs are in place before the consequences become irreversible," said Kellyann Kostyal-Larrier, Executive Director, Fearless! Hudson Valley.

Officials discussed new risk assessments, rising hotline calls, and efforts to connect victims with critical services during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The Village of Liberty Police Department is working with Fearless Hudson Valley to improve its response to domestic violence incidents, with a focus on identifying high-risk cases and connecting survivors with support services.

In recognition of its lifesaving work for survivors of domestic violence, New York State Senator Rob Rolison has awarded Fearless! Hudson Valley with the New York State Empire Award, the highest statewide honor that can be bestowed on a small business and organization.