On Tuesday, October 6, 2020, Attorney General Barr announced the Office for Victims of Crime release of awards totaling more than $1.8 billion to state victim assistance and compensation programs to fund thousands of local victim assistance programs across the country and provide millions in compensation to victims of crime.
Supported by the Crime Victims Fund, this formula grant program supports a broad array of programs and services and is financed by fines and penalties, not tax dollars.
Over $1.6 billion in victim assistance funding will support local direct service programs, including domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, and human trafficking and elder abuse programs, as well as victim assistance positions in prosecutors’ offices and law enforcement departments.
More than $133 million was awarded to state victim compensation programs that offset victims’ financial burdens resulting from crime, such as medical fees, lost income, and funeral expenses.
“For crime victims, the first step toward healing and recovery is finding a place where trained, committed professionals can be counted on to provide compassionate services that meet fundamental physical and emotional needs,” said Office for Victims of Crime Director Jessica E. Hart. “This funding, taken out of the hands of offenders and put to good use through local assistance organizations and state compensation programs, will enable advocates across the nation to support those in crisis and help victims find the justice they deserve.”