Area organization receives $15,000 grant from AT&T for computers

The Southeast Missouri Network Against Sexual Violence has been awarded $15,000 by AT&T to purchase laptop computers and Internet service to help investigators share information.

NASV executive director and founder Tammy Gwaltney said the money is from AT&T's Excelerator Grant Program, which supported the agency last year as well.

NASV purchased six wireless laptop computers and Internet service for them to be used by the Multi-Disciplinary Team, which is made up of prosecutors, law enforcement agencies, medical professionals, juvenile officers, child advocates and others within NASV's nine-county service area, Gwaltney said.

"They will have the same technology with the same database to get into one centralized system," she said, and will be able to communicate from their respective locations.

Internet service will allow MDT members to access a data-based Web site tracking system recently acquired by NASV. By having access to an Internet site, everyone can access information and communicate in one central location, Gwaltney said.

Agents can write reports or notes while on the field that will be immediately available to other members of the team, she said.

"The award allows law enforcement and social service agencies to assist children in a timely manner through better coordination and common information," she said.

Gwaltney said NASV is fortunate to have obtained the funding for the system.

"Something that is portable is unheard of in these local department budgets," she said.

Gwaltney said the laptops arrived last week and operators will be trained soon.

NASV, formed 10 years ago in Cape Girardeau, works with local law enforcement, juvenile offices and other social service agencies to support children and adults who have been physically or sexually abused or assaulted. The organization provides forensic interviews, medical evaluations and counseling.

carel@semissourian.com

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