DVP Funding is a compilation of five diverse funding sources.  The funding is pooled and distributed through a competitive grant application process to Colorado’s domestic violence programs. 

Colorado Domestic Abuse Fund

Colorado taxpayers elected to make donations through their state income tax return refunds to the Colorado Domestic Abuse Fund in 1983.  Amounts collected annually range from $150,000 to $400,000.  Each year, DVP distributes these funds to support domestic violence programs.

Family Violence Prevention and Services Act

Beginning in 1984, the Federal Congress approved the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA).  This created a grant for states to assist in establishing, maintaining, and expanding domestic violence programs and projects to prevent family violence and to provide immediate shelter and related assistance to victims of family violence and their dependents.  These funds go directly to crisis centers and provide training and education for workers across Colorado.  DVP distributes approximately $1.4 million annually to domestic violence programs.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families

Starting in 2004, additional funding for crisis centers was secured through Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant, which was a result of the loss of State general fund dollars due to budget shortfalls.  DVP distributes $650,000 annually in TANF funds to domestic violence programs.

Heirloom Marriage Certificates

In 2008 the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) began issuing heirloom marriage certificates.  A portion of the $50 fee for each heirloom certificate issued is collected by DVP. 

Marriage License and Divorce Fees

Beginning in 2009, a portion of the fees collected from marriage licenses and divorce filings were directed to DVP for the distribution to domestic violence crisis centers.  It is estimated that the funding available from this fund will be approximately $850,000 annually.