Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the launch of the application period for a record-breaking $379.5 million to fund programs and services for victims and survivors of crime in New York. This funding, available over a three-year period from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2028, aims to sustain and expand essential services such as counseling, legal assistance, emergency shelter, and support groups. Applications are open to community-based organizations, government agencies, hospitals, and other entities statewide, with a submission deadline of March 19, 2025.
Recognizing potential federal funding declines, Governor Hochul secured $100 million annually in state funding for three years to ensure uninterrupted support for crime survivors. “Public safety remains my top priority,” Governor Hochul stated, emphasizing the importance of resources that help victims rebuild their lives and achieve healing.
The New York State Office of Victim Services (OVS), which currently funds over 200 programs, will manage the distribution of these funds. Eligible organizations are encouraged to propose innovative, trauma-informed services that address the specific needs of their communities, with a focus on underserved populations, including older adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, and Indigenous peoples. For the first time, $2 million annually will be allocated specifically to address gaps in services for Indigenous communities.
The application process is competitive, ensuring equitable scoring for all applicants, whether or not they have previously received OVS funding. Programs are encouraged to prioritize inclusion, accessibility, mental health services, and housing support.
In 2024, OVS provided nearly $20 million in financial assistance to victims, covering expenses such as medical and counseling bills, forensic rape exams, and home modifications. These funds are sourced from court-imposed fines and fees, not taxpayer dollars, underscoring the state’s commitment to providing a robust safety net for crime victims.
Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on March 19, 2025, and grants will be awarded this summer. Contracts will align with the federal fiscal year. Full details, including the Request for Applications (RFA), are available through OVS, which remains dedicated to expanding services and supporting crime survivors across New York State.
