City victim advocate describes VOCA-funded support, trauma-informed practices for survivors

Lexi, the city—s victim advocate, told the Spanish Fork City Council on Thursday that the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) grant supports victim-advocate services in the city and funds trauma-informed practices, coordination with prosecutors and community agencies, and material support such as comfort items and hygiene kits.

The report matters because survivors of crime often face immediate practical needs and emotional trauma while navigating the criminal justice system; the advocate said those needs can be barriers to reporting and healing and described how local services aim to reduce retraumatization and meet urgent needs.

Lexi said the VOCA-funded position helps survivors identify and address needs that can arise after victimization, from housing and childcare to legal assistance and basic supplies. "We can't promise that they won't face retaliation if they come forward," Lexi said, "We can't promise that they'll be able to find the way to magically pay their bills if they no longer have that income coming in."…