The Future of Crime Victim Services: Why Funding Matters

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With looming state and federal funding cuts threatening the safety net for victims and survivors of crime, some are asking: How is Someplace Safe funded? The answer is complex, reflecting a diverse mix of financial sources that keep these crucial programs running.

Funding Breakdown:

Someplace Safe relies on a variety of funding streams, including:

  • 40% Crime Victim Services Grants (State and Federal Funding)
  • 6% from the Domestic Violence Housing First Pilot Project (set to end in December 2025)
  • 7% from Crime Victims Intervention & Prevention Grants for at-risk youth survivors
  • 8% from Safe Harbors, supporting regional navigation, youth sex trafficking advocacy, and labor trafficking advocacy
  • 22% from revenue generated by the organization’s thrift stores
  • 17% from all other sources, including donations, fundraisers, local grants, United Way, Parenting Time fees, training and education programs, and assault fines

These funding sources support Someplace Safe’s client-centered programs, which are essential in providing support to survivors. Notably, 40% of the budget comes from Crime Victim Services, funding 11 community advocacy offices, 5 Parenting Time Centers, funding a total of 25 staff. However, a significant portion of this funding is at risk due to federal cuts.

The Federal Funding Crisis

Federal funding for Crime Victim Services primarily comes from the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), which relies on fines collected from individuals and businesses convicted of federal crimes. Over the past eight years, declining prosecutions and reduced fines have caused a significant drop in available funds. In Minnesota, this decline led to a 40% cut in funding for all programs. While the state legislature stepped in to backfill this gap during the last biennium, that temporary solution expires in 2025.

Taking Action for Survivors

Recognizing the urgency of this issue, a group of 30 volunteers, community members, and Someplace Safe staff boarded a bus to St. Paul on February 10, 2025, to participate in Action Day to Prevent Violence. They met with local legislators, advocating for continued or increased funding to support crime victim services. The message was clear: survivors must have access to these vital resources, which are an integral part of Minnesota’s public safety framework.

What’s Next?

As the expiration of funding approaches, community action is more critical than ever. Advocates and supporters may contact state and local legislators to ask for sustainable solutions to ensure Someplace Safe can provide lifesaving services to those in need. Whether through legislative advocacy, donations, or community engagement, every effort counts in securing a safer future for survivors of crime!

For more information on Someplace Safe’s funding and what you can do to help support, contact Sheila Korby, Executive Director, at sheila.k@someplacesafe.info or 218-739-3486.