Crime Survivors News

Will the Legislature protect women in danger?
Crime survivor advocates in rural Oregon have seen their program budgets slashed while the requests for their services have increased dramatically. They call on the legislature to pass HB 3194 to curb prison growth and reinvest those dollars into local public safety efforts proven to reduce crime.
Facing sexual violence is vital
April is National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Senator Floyd Prozanski reminds us that more funding is needed for victim service programs and that we can all support healthy teen relationships. (Register Guard)
Providing Solid Ground in the Aftermath of Abuse
PSJ's Crime Survivors Program Director Kerry Naughton discusses how important being safe and supported allows people to thrive. Survivors of abuse are not always able to find the support they need because of the under-funding of the Oregon Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Fund.
Just Facts: Oregon's Public Safety System
Despite what you might have heard to the contrary, Oregon does many things right; but, our public safety system is trending in the wrong direction. Here are some facts you may not know.
Criminal Justice Reform in 2013
PSJ Associate Director Shannon Wight examines the recommendations of the Commission on Public Safety and HB 3194 which incorporates them. The Commission's recommendations are consistent with PSJ's long-standing goals and we are very supportive of this bill.
Scholarship Opportunities for Murder Victim Family Members
The Hearts of Hope Scholarship Fund is offering college scholarships to young people whose parent or sibling were murdered. Find out how to apply and get connected to the Peyton Tuthill Foundation.
Sexual Assault Prevention Advocates Urge Sentencing Leeway for Judges
It’s Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and at a hearing today in Salem, advocates for victims say they’re supporting a shift in Oregon’s priorities for criminal justice. That includes legislation that would allow some sentencing changes.
Violence Against Women Act passed by House, sent to Obama for signature
Critical funding for domestic violence and rape prevention programs was finally passed by Congress. Though funding was reduced by 17 percent, the legislation allows shelters and programs to continue giving life-saving services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence. (Washington Post)
Valentine's Day? Just Another Tough One for Domestic Violence Victims
Valentine’s Day doesn't mean hearts, flowers and candy when you’re in an abusive relationship. It's also Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month and DV shelters and service providers say they can’t focus on prevention for young people when they’re barely able to serve DV victims in crisis. (ONS)
Portland Struggles to Meet Domestic Violence Shelter Needs
Every day at 9 am, the Portland Women’s Crisis Line website updates the availability at the city’s four emergency shelters. Most mornings, it’s the same answer: no vacancy. Despite that searing need, Yolanda House, a 10-room shelter run by the YWCA of Greater Portland, will close March 1. (WWeek)