PROVIDENCE, R.I. – General Treasurer Gina M. Raimondo today announced the appointment of Melba Depena as program administrator for the state’s Crime Victims Compensation Fund. Depena comes to this position from the Providence Human Relations Commission, where she has served as executive director since 2006.
“Melba’s rich experience in working with diverse populations and fostering a collaborative environment of respect will be a valuable asset to Rhode Island’s Crime Victims Compensation Fund,” Raimondo said. “Her leadership will ensure that crime victims and their families are able to access and fully utilize the resources available to them through this program.”
Raimondo’s announcement was made in recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. Rhode Island’s Crime Victims Compensation Fund helps victims and their families with the many costs associated with violent crime, such as hospital, counseling and funeral expenses. The fund helped 358 Rhode Islanders last year.
Depena earned a B.A. degree in political science and a Master’s degree in human development and family studies from the University of Rhode Island. She lives in Providence.
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