National Domestic Violence Hotline Celebrates the Passage of the VOCA Fix Act

For Immediate Release: July 21, 2021

AUSTIN – The National Domestic Violence Hotline celebrates the passage of The Victims of Crime Act (VOCA Fix) to Sustain the Crime Victims Fund Act of 2021. Yesterday, after extensive federal, state, and local advocacy, the Senate passed the VOCA fix in an extraordinary vote of 100 to 0.  The House overwhelmingly passed the VOCA Fix in March. The bill now heads to the President’s desk for signature.

The Victims of Crime Act established the Crime Victims Fund (the Fund), which is a major source of critical funding for victim services throughout the country. Deposits into the Fund have dropped dramatically in the last several years, leading to a substantial cut in VOCA victim assistance grants.

“Millions of survivors are supported every year through hundreds of VOCA funded direct service organizations such as shelters, victim services programs, and rape crisis centers,” said Katie Ray-Jones, CEO of the National Domestic Violence Hotline (The Hotline). “We applaud the leadership of the Members who championed this bill that will help domestic and sexual violence programs across the country meet the demand for services and best support survivors.”

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For twenty-five years, the National Domestic Violence Hotline has answered the call – over 5.6 million calls, chats, and texts to date – of those affected by relationship abuse. As the only 24/7/365 national service provider offering services via call, chat, and text, we work to shine a light on domestic violence by supporting and advocating for survivors, providing hope in times of crisis, and promoting healthy relationships for all.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline envisions a world where all relationships are positive, healthy, and free from violence. If you or someone you know needs help call The Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, text the word “Start” to 88788, or visit thehotline.org.