PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Treasurer Seth Magaziner today was recognized for his efforts to expand the Crime Victim Compensation Program to help victims of domestic violence, receiving a "Civic Award" during a luncheon supporting the Domestic Violence Program at Crossroads Rhode Island.
Recently, Treasurer Magaziner has worked with the General Assembly to expand the capacity of the Crime Victim Compensation Program, which his office administers, to help victims of domestic violence escape unsafe living environments and provide mental health counseling to minors who witness domestic violence or homicide.
"Too many victims of domestic violence feel they cannot leave their abusers for financial reasons," said Treasurer Magaziner. "Our office has resources to help victims of domestic violence who need to relocate, and I am proud of our work to help victims of domestic violence get to safety."
Under the expansions championed by Treasurer Magaziner, victims of domestic violence are eligible for up to $5,000 toward the cost of relocating when they need to find a new place to live. Since 2016, the program has already helped more than 300 victims of abuse relocate away from their abusers.
Children in Rhode Island are estimated to be present at over a third of domestic violence arrests. Parents and guardians are now able to apply to Rhode Island's CVCP for reimbursement for expenses related to psychiatric care and mental health counseling up to $1,500 per minor victim – bringing the amount available for psychiatric care and mental health counseling in line with adult victims.
"We are grateful for Treasurer Magaziner's ongoing work to support vulnerable Rhode Islanders," said Karen Santilli, President and CEO of Crossroads Rhode Island. "His leadership in expanding Rhode Island's Crime Victim Compensation Program to include reimbursement for minor children who witness domestic violence, will enable these children – who are victims themselves – receive the care they need."
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About Rhode Island's Crime Victim Compensation Program While no amount of money can erase the impact of a violent crime, Rhode Island's Crime Victim Compensation Program (CVCP) assists victims of violent crime with up to $25,000 toward costs and expenses related to the crime, including: medical and dental expenses; mental health counseling; relocation expenses, loss of earnings, as well as funeral expenses.
www.RIcvcp.com