Victims of Crime Act (VOCA)
Forecasted
Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) supports Tennessee’s public and nonprofit victim-service providers, funding direct assistance to improve crime victims’ well-being, stability, and safety.
Funder: Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration
Due Dates (Anticipated): January 2027 (Annual application deadline)
Funding Amounts: OCJP determines subaward amounts; standard match is 20% of the overall project budget, subject to waivers
Summary: Supports public and private nonprofit providers delivering direct services that improve crime victims’ well-being, stability, and safety.
Key Information: Organizations must use volunteers unless OCJP approves a written waiver based on a compelling reason.
Description
The Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) program supports high-quality services that directly improve crime victims’ health and well-being. Tennessee’s Department of Finance and Administration administers the program through its Office of Criminal Justice Programs (OCJP). Priorities include victims of child abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault, and previously underserved victims. Federal funding comes from the Crime Victims Fund, supported by federal criminal fines and penalties.
Supported services respond to emotional and physical needs, help primary and secondary victims stabilize their lives, and assist victims in understanding and participating in the criminal justice system. Safety measures can include boarding up broken windows and repairing or replacing locks. The federal framework also permits transitional housing, relocation assistance, legal services, and activities supporting direct services, subject to state funding decisions and limits.
