Helping Crime Victims

Violent Crime Victim Assistance (VCVA)

Mission Statement
The Violent Crime Victim Assistance (VCVA) Bureau is dedicated to: developing and improving activities and services that promote the recognition of rights, needs, and interests of crime victims in Illinois; providing victims access to programs that supply needed information, assistance, and advocacy; educating the public about victim services; and ensuring that grantee agencies provide quality services.

VCVA Overview and History
Any public or private not-for-profit agency may apply to the Attorney General for selection as a Victim/Witness Assistance Center under the law. To be eligible for funding, each applicant must provide one or more of the 11 designated services to violent crime victims.

This program is financed by a special State Treasury fund – the Violent Crime Victims Assistance Fund. Since January 1, 1984, any person in Illinois convicted of a crime of violence, any other felony or misdemeanor, or certain other offenses listed in the Illinois Vehicle Code, will be assessed a fine. These fines are deposited in the Violent Crime Victims Assistance Fund, which finances crime victim services throughout the state.

Downloadable Resources:

FY24 Grant Application