The purpose of the OVAG Program is to provide funds, using a competitive allocation method, to programs that address the unmet needs of victims by maintaining or increasing their access to quality services.
OVAG Purpose Areas
Grant contracts awarded under the OVAG Program may be used for victim-related services or assistance for the following purposes:
- Providing direct victim services including, but not limited to, counseling, crisis intervention, assistance with Crime Victims' Compensation, legal assistance, victim advocacy, and information and referral;
- Providing outreach or community education to help identify crime victims who might not otherwise be reached and provide or refer them to needed services;
- Connecting crime victims to services for the purpose of supporting or assisting in their recovery;
- Training professionals and volunteers to improve their ability to inform victims of their rights, to assist victims in their recovery, or to establish a continuum of care for victims; or
- Other support for victim-related services or assistance as determined by the OAG.
OVAG Statewide Project
An OVAG Statewide project is one that actively offers or provides victim-related services or assistance in six or more COG regions.
In addition to the purpose areas stated above, only Statewide projects may apply for funding for public awareness campaigns designed for connecting crime victims to services for the purpose of supporting or assisting in their recovery.
Eligible Applicants
The following entities are eligible to apply under the OVAG Program:
- Local units of government;
- Non-profit agencies with 26.U.S.C. § 501(c)(3) status; or
- State agencies, including universities.