Objective:
The primary objective of the Victims of Crime Act is to provide direct services to crime victims. Priority must be given to victims of child abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault and service to previously underserved victim's population, which has been defined by the State as crime against the elderly.

Eligible Applicants:
Public and private non-profit organization that provides direct services to crime victims.

Eligible Activities:
This includes assisting victims with filing temporary restraining orders, explaining court procedures, accompanying a crime victim to court, providing child care services, transportation to and from court, food, shelter, clothing, counseling, information and referral, and other related services.

Grant Limits:
Subgrantees apply for fund levels that will address the objectives set out in their grant application.

Timing:
Application for VOC Grants may be filed any time during the year. Funding decisions are made depending upon fund availability and VOC Program requirements.

Requirements:
The following requirements apply to victims assistance grants:

• That Grant Funds provide only direct assistance to Victims of Crime.
• Perpetrators are not eligible to receive services by Victim Assistance Funds.
• Ten percent of the funds must be directed at an underserved population.
• A cash match is required.

Funding Criteria:

• Projects receiving funds must provide direct services only to Victims of Crime.
• Subgrantees are required to provide a 20% cash match.

Compliance Requirements:
Victims assistance grants are subject to all of the state and federal laws and requirements such as environmental laws, lobbying, wage and hour, labor standards and citizen participation which apply to the Victims Assistance Program. Manuals issued by ADECA must be complied with.

Contact:
Rachel Sims
Law Enforcement Traffic Safety Division
Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs
401 Adams Ave.
P. O. Box 5690
Montgomery, AL 36103-5690
334-242-5819 Voice or 334-242-0712 Fax