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.
State dollars invested in MOVA, partnered with federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funding, provide victims and witnesses with:
- Access to 100+ free direct service programs throughout the Commonwealth
- Survivor-centered and trauma-informed services that promote long-term health and wellbeing
- Safe and meaningful participation in the criminal legal process
This funding will allow MOVA to fulfill its mission of empowering survivors. Dollars invested support over 83,000 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 $20M for survivor services - line item (0840-0100).
- 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 one of our Policy and Legislative Affairs Specialists.