Tennessee’s Criminal Injuries Compensation Program offers online training resources to victim advocates

Program reminding organizations that work with victims, it's a resource during National Crime Victims' Rights Week

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Treasury is participating in National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 19 - 25, to raise awareness of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Program, a resource to financially assist victims of crime.

The program provides funds of last resort to victims who have suffered personal injuries related to a crime, such as medical bills, lost wages, loss of support to financial dependents, mental health counseling, and more.

In observation of the week, State Treasurer David H. Lillard Jr. wants to increase awareness of online training resources available to help anyone regularly working with victims to better understand eligibility and how to apply for compensation. Nonprofits, churches, shelters and other victim assistance programs in Tennessee are encouraged to take the Criminal Injuries Compensation Training for Victim Advocates, available on Treasury.tn.gov.

The theme for the 2026 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, “Listen. Act. Advocate. Protect Victims, Serve Communities,” calls on individuals and organizations to listen to the experience of crime victims, take action to address their needs, and advocate for their rights. It stresses the importance of ensuring protection for survivors while simultaneously serving our community by nurturing a broader culture of justice, support, and inclusion.

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Program can even help with expenses incurred while cleaning the scene of the crime if it occurred in a victim’s home. If the crime results in the death of the victim, the fund can assist remaining dependents with some financial support and can help cover funeral expenses. The fund does not cover certain ineligible expenses, such as rent or utility bills, costs from identity theft or fraud, personal property, or expenses that will be paid by any public or private source, including insurance or donations.

Learn more about the Criminal Injuries Compensation Program at treasury.tn.gov/injury.

###