FUNDING TO HELP SURVIVORS REGAIN STABILITY

In the aftermath of a crime, the government offers supportive funding to survivors and their families, commonly known as “victim compensation.” Victim compensation is state-administered, federal funding that provides financial reimbursement for costs associated with crimes, such as hospital bills, burial expenses, mental health counseling, temporary housing, and/or replacing locks. This funding helps survivors regain stability after experiencing traumatic events by providing basic support and helping reduce any accumulation of debt. Unfortunately, survivors from marginalized communities have been systematically excluded from receiving these funds since the inception of these programs. Today, advocates and legislators are looking to change that through equitable and forward-thinking legislation.

Since the fall of 2021, Common Justice has led the Fair Access to Victim Compensation coalition, advocating for changes to the way victim compensation funding is administered in New York State.

For more on our Advocacy Team’s work