Crime Survivors Speak:
Right to Heal

Access to Victim Compensation

Every Survivor Deserves the Right to Heal through Accessing Victim Compensation

Too many crime survivors are left without the support they need to recover. Victim compensation is a critical resource that helps survivors cover funeral/burial expenses, medical bills, lost wages, mental health services, and more—but outdated laws, burdensome requirements, and lack of awareness prevent many from accessing it.

Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice (CSSJ) is launching the Right to Heal – Access to Victim Compensation campaign to break down barriers, educate communities, and push for policy changes to ensure every survivor gets the help they deserve.

Join the Campaign

Take the Survey

Your feedback is essential to improving
victim compensation policies

Share Your Story

Share your experiences navigating
victim compensation

Attend an Event

Join us for powerful community events,
workshops, trainings and more.

Find State Resources

All states have victim compensation
assistance and programs 

Read the Report

Read Creating a Model
Victims’ Compensation Policy

Help Survivors

Donate today to support
access to victim compensation

About the Campaign

The Right to Heal – Access to Victim Compensation campaign
aims to finally get victims of crime the financial assistance
and stability they need to heal after victimization.

Our multi-strategy approach includes:

Surveying Survivors — Collecting information about survivors and learning about their experiences with their state’s victim compensation program.

Raising Awareness – Educating survivors, service providers, and communities about victim compensation.

Training and Empowerment – Training survivors and community residents on how to apply for victim compensation.

Hosting Community Events – Bringing survivors together for healing, storytelling, and public education events.

Advocating for Change – Pushing for reforms to expand access to victim compensation.