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December 2020 Featured Resources

December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

During National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, President Trump states “… we remember the lives lost as a result of those driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, we acknowledge the pain and suffering caused by impaired driving, we honor the brave law enforcement officers who risk their lives to protect our communities from this irresponsible behavior, and we resolve to never get behind the wheel unless we are sober.”

To help raise awareness, we highlight the National Sheriffs’ Association video, DUI Crashes: Real Crimes, Real Victims. Created with funding support from the Office for Victims of Crime, this video urges law enforcement to respond to and interact with DUI crash victims in a victim-centered way, with all the referrals, support, and resources due to victims of a violent crime.

The video describes the importance of clearly communicating to DUI victims that services are available to them, including crime victim compensation accessible in every state through the Crime Victims Fund.

Additional information and resources are available on the Mothers Against Drunk Driving and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: Drunk Driving websites.

Financial Support Is Available for Victims of International Terrorism

The International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program is a unique federal program that provides financial compensation to victims of acts of international terrorism and their families.

The program provides financial reimbursement to eligible United States citizens and government employees and contractors who suffered direct physical or emotional injury from an act of terrorism while outside the United States.

The International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program provides reimbursement for eligible expenses related to medical and mental health care, property loss, funeral and burial, emergency travel, and other qualifying expenses associated directly with the incident. Case managers for the International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program are available to provide compassionate support to victims and their families throughout the application process.

Case managers for the International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program are available to provide compassionate support to victims and their families throughout the application process.

Learn more on the International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program section of our site and in this short video about the program.

VictimConnect Provides Confidential Referrals for Crime Victims

The VictimConnect Resource Center is a place for crime victims to learn about their rights and options, confidentially and compassionately.

VictimConnect is a weekday helpline that offers information, referrals, and resources by phone or text toll free (855-4-VICTIM) or online chat. Whether by chat, text, or phone, trained specialists are available to assist victims of crime. Visitors to the hotline receive strength-based and trauma-informed services and referrals in over 200 languages. During these difficult times, the helpline remains open for victims.

Funded by the Office for Victims of Crime, VictimConnect is operated by the National Center for Victims of Crime.

Date Published: December 10, 2020