OVS is seeking proposals from public agencies or nonprofit organizations, or a combination thereof, to provide case management services as well as legal services to low-income victims of crime in Connecticut. Selected organizations will perform services under the VOCA-VA grant program for victims of all eligible crimes, with an emphasis on victims of child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault and, as defined below under 5.C., underserved crimes. A. OVS is specifically seeking case management services for victims of crime. The selected organization shall provide a coordinated case management system to enhance access to and the utilization of victim, mental health, and other services to help restore victims to higher levels of functioning. Additionally, the system shall include case managers who will help victims understand their rights, navigate systems that can help them heal, and connect them to community supports. B. OVS is also seeking legal services for victims of crime. The selected organization shall provide a combination of legal services and non-lawyer advocacy for low-income victims. Such legal services shall include providing victims with knowledge of their rights and how to access the justice system's remedies and protections including but not limited to obtaining and maintaining protection or restraining orders; assistance with child custody, visitation, and support; housing; employment; and accessing government services. Non-lawyer advocacy shall include legal case management and advocacy with services including the provision of information about the Victim Compensation Program and assistance with applications; detailed referrals to legal services programs; support to victims through the legal process; work with attorneys to coordinate the pursuit of civil remedies and criminal proceedings; and non-legal options and resources for victims to be safe and to heal.
