Gun violence survivors in Austin are actively advocating for easier access to victim compensation resources, seeking to raise awareness about the support systems available to them. A recent study reveals that two out of three crime victims are unaware of the compensation program, underscoring the urgent need for change in how resources are provided and communicated.
Aswad Thomas, a survivor and National Director of Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice, calls for about $8 million in state investment to sustain the Harvest Trauma Recovery Center. Jill Henderson, founder of The Bakari Foundation, shares her personal struggle after losing two sons to violence, emphasizing the compounded trauma that victims face and the critical need for community support during recovery processes.
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