NCJ Number
217956
Date Published
2010
Length
1 page
Annotation
This fact sheet outlines assistance availability under the U.S. Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program for communities responding to victims of terrorism and mass violence.
Abstract
The threat of terrorism and mass violence against Americans, both domestically and abroad, has increased in recent years. Such acts leave victims with physical and emotional wounds, and challenge government officials and communities to respond immediately with appropriate effort. Victim assistance and compensation providers face the daunting task of coordinating effective and timely responses, providing information and assistance to victims, and working closely with other agencies and victim service organizations. OVC is committed to promoting justice and healing for all victims of terrorist attacks and mass violence through the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program. As an agency, OVC administers federal funds to support victim services, provides training, develops projects to enhance victims' rights and services, and undertakes public education and advocacy activities on behalf of crime victims. OVC offers five categories of assistance to respond to terrorism and mass violence: 1) crisis response, 2) consequence management, 3) criminal justice support, 4) crime victim compensation, and 5) training and technical assistance. Assistance in each category targets a specific phase in the aftermath of a crisis and is designed to meet the immediate and extended needs of victims and the community. Eligible applicants for funds include state victim assistance and victim compensation programs; U.S. Attorneys Offices; victim service and nongovernmental organizations; and federal, state, and local governments; however, funding is not available to foreign governments. Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Programs funds may be used to provide services and assistance to: victims and surviving family members, emergency response personnel, nationals of the United States, and officers or employees of the U.S. Government, including family members and legal guardians.