COLUMBIA, S.C. — Thursday marked the 3rd annual Victims Matter Rally at the State House, drawing a diverse crowd united in advocating for the rights of victims of violence and sexual assault.
According to the South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (SCCADVASA), nearly 32,000 cases of domestic violence were reported to law enforcement in the state in 2022.
Sarah Ford, legal director at the South Carolina Victim Assistance Network (SCVAN), emphasized the importance of support for victims. "It really motivated me as a prosecutor and a victims' rights attorney to stand up and say you don't have to be there alone. You can have a team for support and be represented in council," Ford stated.
Ford and her group are pushing for comprehensive support services and legislative reforms to address the systemic challenges confronting victims of domestic violence.
The upcoming Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funding cuts have raised concerns among advocates. Shannon Nix, Director of Member Support and Technical Assistance for SCCADVASA, highlighted the necessity of funding for survivors to seek help. "They provide free confidential and compassionate non-judgmental support to our victims and survivors," Nix said.
Sarah Ford expressed concerns about the potential impact of funding cuts on survivors. "We won't have successful prosecutions. Victims will be less cooperative and they won't have the access to justice that they deserve," Ford explained.
The looming cuts could result in staffing shortages and logistical challenges for organizations and nonprofits funded by VOCA. "It would be trying to figure out how to do certain programming with reduced staff. How do you serve clients, how do you run a shelter," Nix voiced.
The anticipated decrease in funding could amount to as much as $9 million, leaving VOCA with $12 million compared to $21 million in the previous year.
"Raising awareness and knowing what these resources are in our community, and knowing where to go for support," Nix emphasized.
For victims seeking assistance, the 24-hour crisis line can be reached at (805) 545-8888, with interpretation services available in most languages including American Sign Language.