Program services are available to all victims of crime and their families. All services are free, confidential and available to any Alachua County resident.
Advocates are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to accompany victims of sexual battery to the hospital during the initial rape examination and evidence collection. Counselors respond to request from law enforcement for assistance to victims of domestic violence, homicide survivors, robbery and other violent crimes.
Free and confidential counseling related to the victimization provided to victims and family members. Counseling sessions scheduled by appointment. Early morning and late evening appointments available, all walk-ins are welcome.
Support Group Information
The criminal justice system is dependent upon the cooperation of victims and survivors in order to prosecute a case successfully. Participating in the prosecution of a criminal case can be frustrating, frightening and confusing. Advocate counselors are available to support and accompany victims to criminal justice appointments and proceedings related to the victimization. We encourage all survivors to cooperate and participate fully.
Victims receiving services from the program receive transportation, if needed, to criminal justice proceedings, referral resources and other appointments related to the victimization.
An advocate will assist victims and survivors with completing an application to the Bureau of Victim Compensation for assistance with medical bills, lost wages, or funeral expenses incurred because of the death of a loved one by an act of violence.
The center provides assistance with the application process for Relocation Funds, available through the Office of the Attorney General, for sexual battery victims who were assaulted in their home or apartment and wish to relocate.
An injunction for protection against domestic violence and sexual violence is filed when a domestic violence or sexual battery victim has reason to believe he or she is in imminent danger of being victimized by the batterer or offender. Advocates will accompany the victim to the Clerk of the Court office to assist in obtaining a protective injunction.
Victims receiving services from the program will receive assistance with unmet special needs such as replacing broken locks, doors and windows. Victims needing assistance should call the program at 352-264-6760 or Toll Free #1-866-252-5439.
An advocate is available to assist victims in securing rights, remedies and services from other agencies, i.e. locating emergency financial assistance, intervening with employers, creditors and others on behalf of the victim. Please call 352-264-6760 or Toll Free #1-866-252-5439 for assistance.
Advocates will access and identify the victim's needs and refer him/her to appropriate community resources. Please call 352-264-6760 for assistance.
Program staff consists of skilled trainers, and presenters who have provided training, seminars and workshops locally and statewide. Advocates are available to provide educational presentations, speeches and consultation to community groups, agencies and/or organizations. Please call 352-264-6760 or Toll Free #1-866-252-5439 if you would like an advocate to provide training and/or speak to your group or organization.
The program provides outreach services in the Gainesville Police Department to meet the unmet needs of victims who report the crime to law enforcement and a suspect is not arrested.
If any accommodations are needed for persons with disabilities, please contact the Equal Opportunity Office at (352) 374-5275 or (352) 374-5284 TDD.