Comprehensive Victim Services Description

At ME Living and COCAS, we are committed to providing a wide range of support services tailored to meet the needs of victims of domestic violence, abuse, homelessness, and other traumatic situations. Our holistic approach ensures that victims receive immediate and long-term assistance in rebuilding their lives, empowering them to move forward with dignity, safety, and confidence.

1. Emergency Housing & Shelter Support

• We offer immediate access to safe and secure housing for victims and their families, providing a safe environment where they can start their recovery journey.

• Our emergency shelters and transitional housing provide short-term and long-term accommodations, helping victims regain stability.

• Housing vouchers and financial assistance are available through programs such as the CJCC (Criminal Justice Coordinating Council) and VOCA (Victims of Crime Act) to cover rent and utility costs.

• Assistance with rapid rehousing programs and HUD's Continuum of Care to transition from shelters to permanent homes.

2. Case Management & Advocacy

• Victims are assigned a dedicated case manager who provides personalized support and guidance throughout their recovery process.

• Our case managers assist with:

  • Navigating the criminal justice system, including restraining orders and court advocacy.

  • Filing applications for victim compensation programs, such as GA Victims Compensation Program (GAVCP) and Medicaid.

  • Assistance in securing emergency financial aid for housing, medical expenses, and childcare.

  • Accessing employment services and training to support financial independence.

3. Transportation Assistance

• We partner with organizations that provide vehicles or financial assistance to help victims secure reliable transportation.

• Programs like Working Cars for Working Families and Vehicles for Change help low-income mothers and individuals access transportation to work, school, and essential appointments.

• Up to $2,500 or donated cars are available for qualified individuals.

4. Medical & Mental Health Services

• We provide comprehensive access to medical care and mental health services through partnerships with local providers and victim compensation programs.

• Victims can access individual and family therapy sessions, including trauma-informed care for adults and children.

• Therapy costs are covered through the GA Victim Compensation Program, which reimburses for mental health services.

• We work with victims to explore health insurance options like Obamacare (ACA Insurance) for interim coverage or employer-provided insurance.

5. Legal Assistance

• Our team helps victims obtain legal support for:

  • Filing restraining orders and custody arrangements.

  • Navigating divorce and separation proceedings.

  • Ensuring victims’ rights are upheld throughout criminal or civil cases.

• Legal expenses are often covered through VOCA or other victim compensation funds.

6. Financial Assistance

• Victims can access a variety of financial resources to cover critical expenses such as:

  • Rent and utility assistance through housing vouchers and compensation programs.

  • Medical bills, including therapy and mental health services, through victim compensation programs.

  • Childcare support, including access to programs like SNAP and donated childcare services.

• We also provide job placement services and support victims in creating long-term financial stability.

7. Therapy & Counseling Services

• Victims and their families receive free or low-cost individual, group, and family therapy sessions to help them cope with trauma.

• Therapy services include:

  • Two individual sessions per week for the victim to address personal trauma and recovery.

  • One weekly family session to support healing within the family unit.

• Our licensed therapists specialize in trauma-informed care, and all sessions are designed to create a safe, supportive space for recovery.

• All therapy costs can be submitted to the Georgia Victim Compensation Program (GAVCP) for reimbursement.

8. Employment Support & Vocational Training

• We provide victims with resources to secure stable employment, including:

  • Job search assistance, resume building, and interview preparation.

  • Vocational training in areas such as healthcare, administration, and technical skills.

• Financial assistance may be available to help cover the cost of certification and training programs.

9. Children’s Services

• We ensure that children of victims receive:

  • Access to educational support, including enrolling in schools and securing financial aid.

  • Therapy services for children affected by domestic violence or trauma.

  • Assistance with childcare programs and access to educational programs.

10. Comprehensive Victim Compensation

• We help victims apply for compensation from the Georgia Victims Compensation Program, which covers:

  • Medical expenses

  • Mental health counseling

  • Funeral costs (if applicable)

  • Lost wages or support

• We handle the submission of claims and ensure that all eligible expenses are reimbursed through state and federal programs.

11. Community Integration & Support

• We offer ongoing peer support and community reintegration programs to help victims reestablish a sense of belonging and independence.

• Support groups and workshops are available for ongoing emotional and psychological recovery.

• Our life skills training programs equip victims with tools for budgeting, managing households, and fostering healthy relationships post-trauma.