Hurricanes Fiona and Ian Domestic Violence Services Disaster Assistance and Recovery Supplemental Funding

The contract, titled "Hurricanes Fiona and Ian Domestic Violence Services Disaster Assistance and Recovery Supplemental Funding," is a federally funded program administered by the Mississippi Office of Interpersonal Violence under the Mississippi State Department of Health. Authorized by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, it allocates $10 million in emergency funds specifically to address the impacts of Hurricanes Fiona and Ian in fiscal year 2023. These funds are designated for distribution to states, territories, tribes, and coalitions to support family violence prevention and services efforts under sections 303(a) and 303(b) of the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA). Notably, this appropriation waives matching requirements and allows allocations based on assessed need. The funds may be used for a broad range of purposes including temporary housing and assistance for victims of family, domestic, and dating violence, as well as capital improvements like alteration, renovation, construction, and equipment in affected areas. Recipients may expend these funds through the end of fiscal year 2027, with the stipulation that federal interest in renovated or improved property (except for Head Start programs) will not be retained beyond 10 years. Additionally, expenditures covered by FEMA, insurance, or self-insurance cannot be reimbursed from this funding. The supplemental funding supports ongoing domestic violence service activities within Mississippi, as reflected in the 2023-2024 Domestic Violence Work Plan developed by the state’s Office Against Interpersonal Violence. This plan emphasizes enhancing victim support through information dissemination, referral services, and coordination with community partners, with detailed performance tracking and outcome measurement. Financial management of the grant requires subrecipients to demonstrate robust fiscal controls, as outlined in a financial capability questionnaire aligned with federal regulations. Indirect costs can be requested in compliance with federal guidance, using approved rates or a 15% de minimis rate, while performance data must be accurately prorated and reported according to Office for Victims of Crime guidelines. Overall, this contract supports a comprehensive and accountable approach to disaster-related domestic violence service delivery and infrastructure improvements in Mississippi.