County Thanks TDS Telecom for Generous Support of Victims and Witnesses of Crime

April 12, 2012
Casey Slaughter Becker, Office of the County Executive 608.267.8823 or cell, 608.843.8858
County Executive

Company’s Annual Fundraiser Raises $26,825  for Crime Response Program

Dane County Executive Joe Parisi and Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne today thanked TDS Telecom for their continued commitment and $26,825 donation to the Crime Response Program, a 24/7 operation that provides protection and support for victims and witnesses of crime. 

 

“The Crime Response Program serves a critical need for those who are impacted deeply and unexpectedly by a criminal act,” said Parisi.  “In difficult budget times, continued public and private partnerships are essential to delivering these important resources to Dane County residents.”

 

For the second straight year, TDS has donated the proceeds of their annual golf outing to the Friends of Crime Response Fund administered through the Madison Community Foundation.  The fund goes directly to the resources provided to victims and witnesses of crime, affected community and family members, and survivors of homicide.  Historically, this support has included emergency food, gas, transportation, clothing, counseling, or lodging for individuals displaced or affected by crime or a criminal investigation. 

 

“Crime has a ripple effect throughout all aspects of the victim’s life,” said Ozanne.  “The Crime Response Program exists to meet the practical and emotional needs of those impacted by victimization.  We couldn’t do what we do without the collaboration with trusted community partners inside and outside of the criminal justice system.”

 

The Crime Response Program is largely funded through an annual Federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) grant.  Dane County contributes match dollars and the City of Madison Police Department allocates a portion of their Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) for the collaborative work done on behalf of Dane County crime victims and witnesses. 

 

In these particularly difficult financial times, the need is high and the dollars are limited.  Community support from partners such as TDS go a long way in ensuring services can be provided. 

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