The Hotline Receives National Crime Victim Service Award
Today, the U.S. Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) announced that the National Domestic Violence Hotline is receiving a National Crime Victim Service Award. This award recognizes individuals and organizations from across the nation that are leading efforts to advance victim services and victims’ rights.
Hotline CEO Katie Ray-Jones was in Washington, DC to accept the award on behalf of the more than 200 staff members who work every day to shift power back to those affected by relationship abuse.
“We do this work for the survivor who told an advocate, ‘I have been afraid to ask for help for 16 years. This is the first time I have reached out…It gives me hope I never thought could be.’ We do this work so that someone is there the first time and every time a person reaches out for support,” she said.
The Hotline, which is commemorating 20 years of service this year, operates as a 24/7 lifeline for victims and survivors of domestic violence nationwide. Since 1996, we have answered over 3.8 million calls, chats, and texts from those seeking support, resources, and hope. In 2015, The Hotline opened an office in Washington, DC, to expand our digital services capabilities and establish a base from which to advocate for policies that protect and support survivors. We continue to explore innovative ways to increase our outreach, particularly to underserved communities.
The Hotline would like to congratulate our fellow 2016 award winners and express our deepest thanks to the Office for Victims of Crime for their ongoing support and recognition. Together, we will continue to work toward a world where all relationships are positive, healthy and free from violence.