Survivors of child abuse can and do lead rich, fulfilling lives. Healing happens, and hope is possible. It’s time to bring the conversation about abuse out of the shadows and into the light. It’s time to SHINE.
Resources for SurvivorsWe are stars, lighting a universe of support for survivors.
SHINE is a national campaign to transform the conversation about child abuse. For too many, childhood is where the trauma starts. But survivors need to know they are not alone—their light connects to other lights in a universe of support. Be the light in your community that helps kids through your local Children's Justice Center.
The mission of Children’s Justice Centers is to provide a comfortable, neutral, child-friendly atmosphere for children to receive coordinated services during the child abuse investigative process.
If you are the victim of a crime, you may be eligible for compensation whether the perpetrator is convicted or not. Crime Victim’s Reparation (CVR) can provide financial resources to victims of crime to help cover costs that resulted from the crime. CVR can assist with costs of medical care, counseling, and other specific needs in relation to the crime. To qualify for reparations, a police report must be filed and the offense must have occurred in Utah or the victim must be a Utah resident. If the offense occurs in a state other than Utah, the reparations claim is filed with that state’s reparations office (every state has a comparable program). The program is administered through the Utah Office for Victims of Crime (UOVC).
To submit an application for the Crime Victim Reparations Program, please read the informative brochure below, fill out the applicable form, and mail the completed form to the address listed. A parent can also apply on behalf of their children:
1. First the application must be submitted to the CVR office which often takes between 30-45 days to be processed.
2. Next you will be mailed an initial letter letting you know that your application was received.
3. CVR will then request a copy of the police report from the investigating detective to verify the crime occurred and then your application will be reviewed for approval.
4. You will then receive a second letter in the mail stating whether your claim has been approved. If approved, you will be given a claim number and assigned a CVR officer who will work directly with you to disperse funds as needed.
Please note: CVR applications are available on the basis that a crime occurred, and that the victim is cooperating with the investigation. The funds are not determined by your legal status. CVR funds are not based on personal income and do not need to be reimbursed. Once approved, your claim remains open for a three-year period.
If you have any questions regarding CVR, please call the Utah Office for Victims of Crime directly at 801‑238‑2360 or toll-free at 1‑800‑621‑7444.
If you suspect child abuse is occurring, please call the 24/7 hotline:
1-855-323-3237Why we shine: SHINE is a national initiative to end the stigma around child abuse and encourage community members to support survivors. SHINE celebrates the resiliency of survivors and the critical role of CJCs in helping children find hope, support, and healing.
How can I help? No matter who you are, you can make a difference for survivors of child abuse. There are many ways to help end the stigma, support adult survivors, and provide real help to children experiencing abuse now. Here are a few examples of how you can pledge support for SHINE:
To Learn More: If you would like to request further information about ways you can support SHINE and/or your local CJC, please fill out the form below:
To learn more about the national SHINE Campaign, please visit SHINECAMPAIGN.ORG