CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter is encouraging eligible agencies to apply for a $2.8 million grant opportunity to secure transitional housing services for survivors of crimes. The grant program, administered by the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, offers assistance to public agencies and non-profit organizations that provide survivors safety, independence and stable housing.

“Millions of Illinoisans have experienced some form of domestic violence or victimization, and do not have a safe place to live,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “This grant opportunity will help connect survivors with housing security and other resources needed to feel safe again.”

Survivors of violence face significant barriers to accessing services like shelter, food, clothing, secure housing, utilities, income and legal protection. Thanks to funding provided under the Victims of Crimes Act, assistance is available to organizations that offer crime survivor services. VOCA is supported with fines paid by those convicted of violating federal laws and must be used to provide direct services to survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse, and other underserved survivors of crime.

Eligible clients include adult survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, anti-LGBTQ+ violence, forced labor, and other crimes. Grants will be made between $100,000 to $400,000. Funds must be spent between March 1, 2023, and February 29, 2024. Agencies may request and receive additional funding to support programming for up to another 24 months after the initial funding period.

“Everyone deserves access to affordable housing, especially those that have been denied safety due to circumstances of victimization,” Hunter said. “If you are a non-profit or public agency that aids crime victims, this grant was made for you. Please apply as soon as possible.”

The application deadline for this program is Jan. 18, 2023. Learn more about this grant and other ICJIA initiatives at icjia.illinois.gov.

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