Why are we advocating?
MOVA can no longer rely on the federal government as a sufficient source to support meaningful victim services in Massachusetts. Annual deposits into the Federal Crime Victim's Fund (CVF) have sharply declined, impacting the traditional annual federal grant awards that MOVA administers to programs. Programs are facing significant funding cuts without state support, threatening the stability of lifesaving services for victims and survivors of crime across the Commonwealth.
State dollars invested in MOVA provide victims and witnesses with:
- Access to 100+ free direct service programs throughout the Commonwealth
- Culturally responsive, trauma informed services and resources currently threatened by federal actions
- Stability and sustainability amid ongoing federal funding reductions
Reduced funding will restrict access to lifesaving resources, especially for underserved communities. A dedicated line item would protect these services, reduce strain on existing systems, and strengthen trust with victims and survivors of crime. This funding will allow MOVA to fulfill its mission of empowering survivors. Dollars invested support over 70,000 survivors annually and maintain critical victim services programming and infrastructure throughout the Commonwealth, including those most vulnerable to recent federal action.
How can you help?
We welcome support in our advocacy efforts to secure this critical funding. If you're interested in joining our efforts, here's what you can do:
- Contact your legislators and ask them to support MOVA's TRUST Line initiative for $13.8M for victim and survivor services
- Utilize our stakeholder advocacy toolkit linked here for resources to support your advocacy
- Sign up for our policy email listserv to stay up to date on forward movement and engagement opportunities
- Connect with us to learn more! Email movapolicy@mass.gov to connect with us
- Follow us on social media @massmova to follow along with our efforts and engage with us online