Assistance Available For Victims

The Connecticut Office of Victim Services (OVS) is available to assist Connecticut residents affected by Tuesday’s tragic events. OVS provides services, referrals to nonprofit and public organizations and information on victim rights and resources. OVS can be reached at 800-828-8428.

In addition, Connecticut residents who lost a family member in this week’s terrorist attacks may be eligible for financial assistance through the Victim Compensation Program. This program assists crime victims and family members of homicide victims by providing for expenses not covered by other sources such as health insurance or Workmen’s Compensation. For example, compensation may be provided for medical and dental costs related to the crime, counseling for victims and family members, victim’s lost wages, and loss of support, and funeral costs for family members of homicide victims. For survivors of homicide victims, up to $25,000 may be paid; for other crimes up to $15,000 may be paid. There are no income level criteria; all eligible victims may apply for compensation.

Additionally, the Family Counseling Center, Inc., of Newtown is available to help residents of northern Fairfield County and Southbury in the aftermath of Monday’s tragedies.

“During this time of intense emotion, pain, anger and shock, we are here to support you, your family, friends and loved ones, about your mental health concerns,” FCC Executive Director Terry Blackmer said this week.

Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the FCC’s crisis intervention and grief counseling services. Call 426-8103. Walk-ins also are welcome. The center is at 121 Mt Pleasant Road in Newtown.

For more information call Ms Blackmer or Vickie Santore, clinical director at the center. Both are licensed clinical social workers.