Story perspectives

Asheville Vigil Honors Domestic Violence Victims Amid Funding Crisis

10/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On October 29, a vigil in Asheville honored four Buncombe County domestic violence victims.
Survivors and advocates, including Pearl Phillips, a local survivor and advocate, shared stories about the community's role in addressing domestic violence.
April Burgess-Johnson, Executive Director of Helpmate, said funding has diminished as federal grants decline, impacting victim services.
Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funding has decreased due to fewer prosecutions of white-collar crimes, causing Helpmate to lose $125,000.

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Story summary

On October 29, a vigil in Asheville honored four Buncombe County domestic violence victims.
Survivors and advocates, including Pearl Phillips, a local survivor and advocate, shared stories about the community's role in addressing domestic violence.
April Burgess-Johnson, Executive Director of Helpmate, said funding has diminished as federal grants decline, impacting victim services.
Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funding has decreased due to fewer prosecutions of white-collar crimes, causing Helpmate to lose $125,000.