Braveheart Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) relies on government funding to support hundreds of child crime victims annually in Bureau, Henry, Marshall, Putnam, and Stark counties. The Braveheart Children’s Advocacy Center faces severe challenges following a significant $600 million cut in the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funding. This reduction threatens crucial services for child victims of violent crimes, including therapy and medical exams. The center, a critical support system offering forensic interviews and victim advocacy, served almost 400,000 abused children last year alone. In response, legislation—The Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act—has been proposed to mitigate these cuts by reallocating funds from the False Claims Act. Community members are urged to support this act and help maintain essential services for children in need.
The Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act is a short-term solution to stabilize the fund for five years while Congress works on a permanent solution. Refilling the CVF will provide the funds needed to offset the VOCA cuts and allow crime victims to receive support and essential services that are vital to the well-being of children in our communities.
“Our mission has always been to provide unwavering support to the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Jackie Diediker, Executive Director at Braveheart Children’s Advocacy Center. “These budget cuts put our ability to deliver crucial services, such as therapy and medical exams, at risk. Without immediate action, we may be forced to reduce our services or some CAC’S may even close their doors.”
“We urge our community and our Congressional leaders to support the CVF Stabilization Act,” Felisha Rogers, Community Outreach Coordinator said. “Our children’s futures depend on it. We need to ensure that the critical services provided by Braveheart CAC can continue uninterrupted, helping victims to heal and reclaim their lives.”
Community members are urged to contact their local Congressional Representatives and let them know you support the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act (H.R. 8061 in the House and S.4514 in the Senate). You can also help by donating to Braveheart CAC or volunteering your time to assist with their programs.
About Braveheart Children’s Advocacy Center:
Braveheart Children’s Advocacy Center is dedicated to providing comprehensive support and advocacy for child victims of abuse and their families. Our services include forensic interviews, mental health treatment, medical examinations, and community outreach programs designed to prevent abuse and promote healing. We serve Bureau, Henry, Marshall, Putnam, and Stark counties and are proud members of the National Children’s Alliance.