Victims of Crime Assistance (VOCA)

Victims of Crime Assistance Additional Services

In addition to 24-hour crisis intervention, VOCA provides information and referral services, legal and systems advocacy. This could include going with you to court, helping with paperwork, contacting employers or others, and helping you stabilize your life after victimization. VOCA Services are free of charge, confidential, and are provided whether or not the crime is reported or prosecuted. Bilingual, bicultural providers are available.

VOCA provides these services for victims/survivors of assault, burglary, child abuse, drunk and drugged driving, identity theft, kidnapping, property crimes and others. (The program is not designed for victims of sexual assault or domestic violence, because there are existing services to address those needs). EPIC's VOCA program serves Yakima, Skamania, Klickitat and Kittitas Counties.

Legal and Systems Advocacy

As a liaison between families, police, offices of the district attorney, the department of corrections and division of parole, your Advocate can help you and your family stay informed about your case.

We offer emotional support and guidance on how to navigate the criminal justice system. Your Advocate may accompany you and your family to court.

Being a victim of crime can be a devastating experienceYou may feel overwhelmed by feelings of grief, anger, helplessness, shame and/or loneliness. Experienced VOCA Advocates are here to help you cope with your emotions and assist you with practical issues that may arise.

The Healing Process

• Expect to have good and bad days
• Share your feelings with others and your Advocate
• Express your feelings through writing or physical activity
• Give yourself permission to laugh, cry or get angry
• Focus on living
• Get plenty of rest
• Eat regularly, even if you don't feel like it
• Drink water
• Do things that make you feel good
• Forgive yourself