A Critical Safety Net for Victims, Their Families Since 1966
Compensation
OVS provides substantial financial relief to eligible crime victims and their families. The agency pays medical and dental bills; counseling costs; funeral and burial expenses; crime scene clean-up cost; lost wages and support, among other assistance. New York is the only state in the country with no limit on reimbursement for medical bills or counseling, which means individuals receive help for as long as they need it.
Advocacy and Support across New York State
To further the rights, interests and support of crime victims, OVS funds a network of victim assistance programs providing direct services, such as counseling, legal help, emergency shelter for domestic violence victims, across the state. Crime victim advocates meet men, women and children in crisis, help them navigate the criminal justice process and work to ensure their rights are protected and their voices heard.
Education and Outreach
OVS facilitates communication and coordination with other federal, state, and local governmental agencies and victim advocacy organizations. The agency also supports victim service professionals, providing training and resources that allows them to enhance their skills and resources that emphasize the importance of caring for themselves. While advocacy work is extremely rewarding, it also can be stressful and challenging.
Making a Difference
Help, Healing and Hope for Crime Victims
Voice of a Survivor
Support from a victim advocate, help with medical bills make a difference.
A Success On and Off the Court
A single moment – and five bullets – changed David Snowden’s life.
Remembering Ianna Doris, Always
A mother loses her toddler to violence, but the girl’s memory lives on.
Making a Difference
Helping Victims Become Survivors
The Office of Victim Services
The agency can pay medical, dental and mental health bills, burial and funeral expenses, and lost wages and support, among other types of help.
Lives Altered, Lives Rebuilt
Watch and read testimonials showcasing the difference OVS makes in the lives of New Yorkers affected by crime.
National Leader in Victim Rights
New York State has a long commitment to assistance crime victims and their families and advocating for their rights.
Major Milestones
Help, Healing and Hope Campaign Begins
New Law Helps Families of Homicide Victims with Funeral Costs
The Office of Victim Services Commemorates 50 Years of Assistance to Crime Victims Family Members
Latest Accomplishment
September 26, 2016Help, Healing and Hope Campaign Begins
Learn More
Learn More