EJUSA has released its updated “Apply for VOCA Funding: A Toolkit for Organizations Working with Crime Survivors in Communities of Color and Other Underserved Communities.” This revised toolkit reflects the new guidelines released by the federal Office of Victims of Crime (OVC). Many of new guidelines recognize the marginalization of underserved survivors and are a step in the right direction in terms of meeting EJUSA’s goals of brining equity to services for survivors.
Download the updated toolkit here.
Our toolkit breaks down the general rules and how to apply, tips on budgeting, making your case for VOCA funds, sample materials, a worksheet to help you get started, and also discusses some of the changes including:
- Services to incarcerated survivors
- Support for transitional housing and relocation expenses
- LGBTQ populations are included in definitions under domestic and intimate partner violence
- Funding for project evaluation
- Using VOCA funds for web sites, social media, mobile devices, and more.
- Expanded definition of restorative justice
VOCA funds represent a unique opportunity for groups that have been supporting survivors in their communities, but who do not yet have the funding to fully deliver critical services. Review the toolkit and get a sense if your organization may be eligible.
If you need assistance with technical questions regarding how your organization may be eligible for VOCA funds, contact our Grassroots Capacity Building Specialist, Latrina Kelly-James at latrinakj@ejusa.org.
You can read the full revised VOCA Rules and Regulations on the Federal Register.
What is VOCA?
VOCA is the federal Victims of Crime Act funding, a funding source allocated to the states and U.S. territories for direct victim assistance services, crime victim compensation, crime victim programs, and services for victims of federal crimes. States distribute funds to community-based organizations in their respective states that provide victim services and programs in their communities. Check with your state for full guidelines and processes for applying for VOCA funding.
