Supporting Survivors: The Critical Role of the Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP)
At YWCA Lancaster, we are committed to supporting survivors and ensuring that financial barriers do not stand in the way of healing. This commitment was highlighted during a press conference at our offices, where multiple local and state agencies gathered to discuss the Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP)—a crucial resource for individuals affected by crime.
A Lifeline for Victims and Survivors
Since 2023, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) has paid more than $29 million for over 16,000 VCAP claims, helping victims with medical costs, counseling, relocation, and more. Over the past five years, PCCD has provided over $67 million in compensation across Pennsylvania’s 67 counties.
“No crime victim should have to worry about how they’ll afford medical bills. No family should have to struggle with funeral expenses for a loved one lost to violence. And no sexual assault survivor should have to worry about costs of counseling to overcome their trauma,” said Kathy Buckley, Director of PCCD’s Office of Victims’ Services. “That’s why VCAP is so essential—it’s more than just financial assistance; it’s a lifeline.”
VCAP in Lancaster County
Locally, Lancaster County Victim Witness Services has filed over 2,400 VCAP claims totaling more than $3 million in the last five years. The program covers essential services such as:
Medical expenses and counseling
Relocation assistance
Loss of earnings and support
Crime scene clean-up and funeral costs
Transportation for survivors seeking care
YWCA Lancaster’s Role in Supporting Survivors
As the designated rape crisis center in Lancaster County, YWCA Lancaster’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Counseling Center (SAPCC) provides no-cost counseling, therapy, medical advocacy, legal advocacy, and a 24-hour sexual assault hotline. VCAP plays a crucial role in ensuring that survivors can access these critical services.
“The Victims Compensation Assistance Program is crucial for victim-survivors of sexual abuse, harassment, and assault in Lancaster County. Our clients rely on the program to cover medical care, transportation, and ongoing therapeutic support. Funding services to address the rights and well-being of victim-survivors is critical,” said Mandy Billman, Director of SAPCC at YWCA Lancaster.
Real-Life Impact of VCAP
VCAP makes a tangible difference in the lives of survivors. Here are just two examples of how the program provides direct support:
Client X, a college student, needed medical care after experiencing sexual assault but did not want to use her parents’ insurance. VCAP covered the hospital bill, ensuring she received the necessary care and follow-up support.
Client Y, already struggling financially before experiencing an assault, couldn’t afford gas money to get to therapy. VCAP provided transportation support, allowing him to attend crucial mental health services at YWCA Lancaster.
These are just a few of the many stories that illustrate how VCAP helps survivors reclaim their lives and find stability after trauma.
Advocating for Continued Support
In recent years, VCAP’s expenses have exceeded available funding, putting the program at risk. To address this, Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed 2025-26 state budget includes a $9 million investment in VCAP to ensure that it remains available for Pennsylvanians who need it most.
How You Can Help
Learn more about VCAP and its impact by visiting PA Crime Victims.
Advocate for continued funding and policies that support survivors.
Share information with those who may benefit from VCAP’s resources.
At YWCA Lancaster, we believe that every survivor deserves justice, healing, and support. By removing financial barriers, VCAP helps to restore dignity and stability, reinforcing our mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.