Introduction
About This Toolkit
So you’re thinking about applying for a VOCA grant. Congratulations! This toolkit will give you the information you need to understand VOCA funding, eligibility, and whether your organization is ready to apply for and sustain a VOCA grant.
Who should use this toolkit:
This toolkit will be useful for any organization seeking its first VOCA grant. But we wrote the toolkit with communities of color and other underserved communities in mind.
Why? The federal government more than tripled funding for victim services for 2015. This infusion of funds presents a unique opportunity to advance racial equity and extend the reach of victim services to include the full range of survivors, all without having to draw a penny away from the essential and life-saving services that are already funded.
This provides a great opportunity for communities and organizations tirelessly supporting crime survivors who have been marginalized or face barriers to accessing traditional victim services — often resulting in no support at all. Communities like yours.
Changes to the guidelines:
On August 8, 2016, a new rule issued by the federal Office of Victims of Crime (OVC) for VOCA assistance programs took effect. The new rule is the result of public feedback and developments within victim services. This toolkit reflects those changes.
Check the state guidelines:
Although VOCA funds are federal funds, this toolkit addresses the funds as they come through the states. Each state sets its own deadlines, processes, and rules for applicants. This toolkit covers most of what you need to know based on the national guidelines. But always refer to your own state’s rules for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
If you’re looking to quickly assess whether or not you may be eligible, start with the self-assessment worksheet.
About EJUSA
Equal Justice USA (EJUSA) is a national organization that works to transform the justice system from one that harms to one that heals. We imagine a justice system that prevents violence, heals trauma, helps people harmed by crime to rebuild their lives, creates genuine accountability instead of mass incarceration, and treats everyone fairly in the process.
EJUSA is best known for our work to end the death penalty, but we have also increased funding for victims’ services, advocated for city investments in trauma intervention, and provided capacity building support to organizations serving crime survivors. Strengthening grassroots organizations to deepen their impact is a core part of EJUSA’s work, and we’re excited to help you to expand your reach and serve more people — especially those who have been previously underserved.
