Victim Assistance Program Searching For New Funding

By: Candice Lee | NBC4i.com
Published: December 09, 2008

[dateline] --
Victims of violent crimes in one Central Ohio county face losing support services should federal funds dry up.
The possibility is so likely that victim’s advocates are speaking out in hopes of stirring a public outcry. Elizabeth Clark talks candidly about what one act of violence did to her family.
"My step-daughter was assaulted by her significant other. She was abducted, assaulted and given a concussion, explains Clark.
            Impressed with the support services her step-daughter received through Union County's Victim's of Crime Assistance Program, Elizabeth signed on as a victim's advocate. Now she faces losing her job.
Nancy Benedetti, executive director of the program tells nbc4, VOCA services are mandated by the state, with local governments matching those dollars. If their state funding disappears, they can expect no help from the county.
"The commissioners did not feel that they could not support that because they are responsible with keeping the county as healthy as they can,” said Benedetti.
         Benedetti says her office assisted more than 1000 victims this year.
The provide crisis intervention, court representation, transportation, emergency needs like food, clothing and shelter, referrals for legal council and a host of other services.
Fearing losing the program more than her job, Elizabeth has only one plea.
"Please try and help us, help other people. That's what we are here for."

Victim Assistance Program Searching For New Funding

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