SC New York News

Congressman Nick Langworthy announced that the Seneca Nation of Indians will receive a $675,000 grant from the Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW). The funding, provided through the Tribal Sexual Assault Services Program (TSASP), aims to support and expand resources for sexual assault victims in the Seneca Nation's communities.

“The Seneca Nation deserves access to the resources needed to help survivors of sexual assault heal and rebuild their lives,” said Congressman Langworthy. “This new funding will allow for the hiring of new staff to strengthen support services and care for victims while ensuring they have the help they need to seek justice. I’m proud to support the Seneca Nation in any way I can as they work to provide a safer and stronger community for all their members.”

Seneca Nation President Rickey Armstrong Sr. stated, “This funding will help us build on our commitment to provide compassionate and comprehensive support to survivors of sexual assault in our communities. By expanding our services and adding staff, we will be better equipped to meet the needs of our members and ensure that survivors receive the assistance and advocacy they deserve. We are grateful for Congressman Langworthy’s continued partnership and support for the Seneca Nation.”

The grant is part of a broader initiative by the Office on Violence Against Women to develop and expand tribal sexual assault services programs. With this funding, the Seneca Nation plans to hire two new staff members, enabling more specialized and responsive support for victims of sexual assault in the Allegany and Cattaraugus Territories. The objective is to enhance intervention, advocacy, and accompaniment services, assisting victims and their families in navigating legal, medical, and emotional challenges following an assault.