Greetings, all!

Ongoing cuts to VOCA funding continue to devastate crucial services for millions of survivors. The recent threat to reduce VOCA funding by 40% jeopardizes the healing and safety of those who need it most, including thousands of survivors right here in New York State. Now is the time to raise your voice! Here are a few ways you can champion VOCA today.

VOCA Congressional Call-In Day

Yesterday (November 8) victims, victim service programs, and community members from across the country united for a VOCA call-in day geared towards engaging their Congressional representatives. Lost track of time and didn’t call? It’s not too late! Call today.

The messaging is simple: “Please take action to prevent a devastating $700 million cut to the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA). Without action, victims/survivors and the programs that serve them will suffer. I ask that Congress invest adequate resources to ensure level funding for VOCA in the final FY24 budget without cutting other programs that victims and survivors rely on.” Here’s an engagement toolkit with more information.

Unsure who you should be calling?

Find your senators: https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm

Find your representative: https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative 

Or you can call the Capitol switchboard and ask to be transferred to your Representatives’ and Senators’ offices at this number: (202) 224-3121.

Elevate VOCA Shortfall Messaging and Thank NYS Senators/Assembly Members on Social Media

“Any reduction in funding would have disastrous consequences for the countless individuals affected by sexual violence in New York and would also be devastating to the dozens of Rape Crisis Centers across the state that provide assistance to victims and survivors.” William Rivera, Interim Executive Director, New York State Coalition Against Sexual Assault

Today, November 9, join advocates from across the state in thanking the 51 New York State Senators and Assembly members who are urging U.S. Senate Majority Leader Schumer and U.S. Democratic Leader Jeffries to push Congress to invest adequate funding into the Crime Victims Fund. A toolkit with sample posts is attached or you can reshare from NYSCASA’s social media.

Raise your voice. Champion VOCA. Take action today!

With gratitude,

NYSCASA