KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – State and local officials were in Kalamazoo Monday to mark the one year anniversary of a program created to provide certain protections for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, or those who fear that disclosure of their physical address will increase their risk of harm.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and the YWCA Kalamazoo held a roundtable discussion on the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP).
“Whether it’s casting their ballot or signing their kids up for school, government services should foster security, not create more hurdles to safety for those escaping abuse,” said Nessel. “The Address Confidentiality Program is a valuable tool we have to help victims of violent crimes and those at risk of threats or physical harm keep their addresses confidential and safe from further danger.”
ACP is a statewide confidentiality program administered by the Michigan Department of Attorney General designed to shield a program participant’s actual physical address by providing an official designated/substitute address, free mail forwarding service, and a guidebook that outlines how to vote, how to change their address, information on schools and bussing, what to do when contacting the police or emergency services, and much more.
There are currently 215 participants in the program, including 104 children and 111 households. Participants have expressed their excitement about being able to vote and get a library card without risking their safety.
Monday’s roundtable featured participants from the Department of Attorney General, local law enforcement, partner organizations, and victim advocates.
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