The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority has announced Vermilion County will receive a nearly $170-thousand dollar grant to help children who are victims of violent crimes. The money is being awarded to Vermilion County CASA, a program which helps children as their case goes through the court system.
Champaign County CASA will receive a $129-thousand dollar grant from the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority.
‘’We know that less than 10-percent of children who are victims of violent crimes, such as rape, robbery, or aggravated assault, get the emotional support they need,’’ says John Maki, Executive Director of the (Illinois Criminal Justice Information) Authority. ‘’These awards will help us engage them more quickly, get them connected to someone who will help them navigate through the court process, and pave the way to more positive outcomes,’’ added Maki. He says the money will help fund organizations whose advocates are trained in trauma-informed practices and offer emotional support to those who have been victimized.
The grants are awarded with federal funds which are awarded through a competitive process.
