AUGUSTA – At a Blaine House reception Thursday for the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence, Gov. John Baldacci proclaimed October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

“We have come a long way in just a few short years, much to your credit as a network of advocates,” said Baldacci. “Yet, we have a long way to go. Too many women and children are being victimized, and each story is tragic and compelling.”

During the reception hosted by the governor and his wife, Karen, coalition staff also honored community members who have contributed to end domestic abuse in Maine.

Baldacci also announced that more than $1 million in federal funds have been awarded to 29 organizations in the state to promote community-based programs to assist victims of domestic violence. The federal STOP Violence Against Women grants are administered by the Maine Department of Public Safety.