Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating the aftermath of a crime can be overwhelming, and we are here to support you. Here are frequently asked questions and answers to assist you and your loved ones. We are also available 24/7, 365 days year if you need to contact us. Click here for our business hours and after hours contact information.
We serve victims of various crimes within the City of Atlanta, with a primary focus on "crimes against a person" as opposed to property crimes (such as a stolen vehicle).
We offer support to survivors and families of:
- Aggravated Assault
- Domestic | Family Violence
- Gun Violence
- Human Trafficking
- Identity Theft
- Child Abuse
- Elder Abuse
- Homicide
- Sexual Assault
A key aspect of our services is that we provide support regardless of whether an arrest has been made. Our goal is to help you heal and move forward, no matter where you are in the process.
Our support is tailored to each situation. For example, we have trained advocates who can respond to crime scenes with law enforcement, help address urgent safety needs (like finding housing or transportation), and help connect victims with essentials such as food, clothing, and toiletries if they've been displaced or lost belongings.
We also provide ongoing services such as our monthly homicide support groups for grieving family members to mourn, honor their loved ones, and find comfort from others' shared experiences.
These are just a couple of examples, and we encourage you to click here to learn more about the wide variety of support we offer.
All of our services are provided free of charge. We are here to offer compassionate support and vital resources to victims of crime without adding any financial burden during what is already a challenging time.
We want you to feel safe reaching out so if you wish to contact us anonymously, you can. Some services do require us to gather information so that we can best assist you, but confidentiality and your privacy are top priorities for us as we work to help you.
Although our primary service area is the city of Atlanta, we can still help connect you with valuable resources if you live outside of the city. We often assist individuals in the surrounding areas by providing information and referrals to local organizations that can offer direct support where you live. Please don't hesitate to reach out so we can discuss your needs and guide you to the appropriate help.
Unlike some other organizations, AVA offers support to victims and witnesses regardless of the arrest status of the offender. Our focus is on connecting victims with resources and helping them cope and move forward.
Additionally, AVA collaborates closely with community partners such as the Atlanta Police Department and the City of Atlanta Municipal Court to actively mitigate the impact of crime and facilitate vital connections for victims. Through these partnerships, we strive to enhance the availability of essential services and support, ensuring that victims receive the comprehensive care they need during their healing journey.
No, AVA is unique in that we offer support whether or not you reported it, and regardless of the arrest status of the offender.
No, we are not a government agency. Atlanta Victim Assistance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the needs of crime victims. However, we work in close partnership with key government entities, including the Atlanta Police Department and the City of Atlanta Municipal Court, as well as other community organizations, to ensure that victims receive comprehensive and coordinated support.
The individuals who assist those we serve are all professional staff members of our organization. They are highly trained in victim advocacy services, equipped with the knowledge and expertise to provide you with compassionate and effective support throughout your journey to healing.
We do have compassionate volunteers that help support our organization in other ways. If you are interested in volunteering, click here to fill out an interest form.
We are available 24/7, 365 days a year. Click here for our contact information.
