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Terrorism and Mass Violence

The threat of terrorism and mass violence against Americans has increased in recent years in the United States and abroad. Such acts leave victims with serious physical and emotional wounds and challenge government officials and communities to respond immediately with appropriate efforts. OVC develops programs and initiatives to support victims of domestic and international terrorism, as well as victims of global crimes such as international parental child abduction and tourist-targeted victimization. Through its Terrorism and International Victim Assistance Services Division, OVC offers assistance to these victims with the following programs: the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program (AEAP), International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP), Crime Victim Assistance Emergency Fund for Victims of Terrorism and Mass Violence (the Emergency Fund), and Victim Reunification Travel Program (VRT).

The following organizations, publications, and related resources provide additional information on the issues of terrorism and mass violence.

OVC and OVC-Sponsored Publications

OVC Report to the Nation 2011, Fiscal Years 2009-2010: Rising to the Challenge-A New Era in Victim Services (March 2012) OVC, 105 pages, NCJ 238061.
This biennial report summarizes the programs, activities, and accomplishments of the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) in fiscal years 2009 and 2010, and their impact on victims, survivors, and communities. It describes the Crime Victims Fund-a significant resource for supporting services to victims; identifies enduring and emerging challenges in victim services; and discusses public awareness, education, and outreach endeavors. Each section summarizes victims' needs in that area and relates how funding from OVC makes a crucial difference in the lives of crime victims. This interactive document features four multimedia components.
Abstract | PDF (Fast Facts) | HTML
 
International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (2010) OVC, BC 000762.
This brochure describes the International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP), which is authorized by Congress to reimburse eligible direct victims of acts of international terrorism that occur outside the United States for expenses associated with that victimization. It includes a list of the expenses that are eligible for reimbursement; explains the difference between itemized, interim emergency, and supplemental applications; and provides deadlines for filing a claim.
PDF
 
International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program--Report to Congress (2009) OVC, Report, 32 pages, NCJ 231686.
This report outlines the activities and accomplishments of OVC's International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP) from June 2007 through August 2008. The report includes a background of the program, authorizing legislation, and funding structure; an explanation of the procedures for filing and processing applications for reimbursement; a description of the informational materials, tools, and outreach campaigns targeted at potential claimants and collaborating agencies and partners; a statistical analysis of applications received and victims assisted; lessons learned; and future program goals.
Abstract | PDF
 
Terrorism and International Victim Assistance Services (TIVAS) Brochure (April 2009) OVC, BC 000753.
This brochure was developed for crime victims and service providers as a comprehensive, accessible source of information about specific programs that support victims of domestic and international terrorism and mass violence, as well as victims of global crimes, such as child abduction and tourist-targeted victimization. The programs described in this brochure are the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program, the International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program, the Crime Victim Assistance Emergency Fund, and the Victim Reunification Travel Program.
PDF
 
International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program--Report to Congress (October 2008) OVC, 39 pages, NCJ 222307.
This report outlines the activities and accomplishments of OVC’s International Terrorism Victims Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP) from October 2006 through May 2007. The report includes a background of the program, authorizing legislation, and funding structure; an explanation of the procedures for filing and processing applications for reimbursement; a description of the policies, procedures, materials, and tools instituted to promote public awareness about the program; a statistical analysis of applications received and victims assisted; and future program needs and suggested improvements.
Abstract | PDF
 

OJP Publications

Mental Health Response to Mass Violence and Terrorism: A Field Guide (2005) Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 38 pages, NCJ 205452.
This guide is intended for service providers and professionals in the mental health field providing the basics in responding and assisting those victims and families during the aftermath of mass violence and terrorism.
Abstract | PDF
 
Mental Health Response to Mass Violence and Terrorism: A Training Manual (January 2004) Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Report, 192 pages, NCJ 205451.
This training manual provides guidance for developing and implementing training that will prepare mental health and crime-victim service providers with the knowledge and skill to help victims, survivors, and the community-at-large cope with and recover from terrorist and other events that involve mass violence.
Abstract | PDF
 
Handbook on Justice for Victims (1999) UNCCPCJ, 132 pages, NCJ 179083.
In May 1996, the United Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, at its fifth session, adopted a resolution to develop a manual or manuals on the use and application of the Declaration. The Handbook on Justice for Victims was developed in response to that resolution and outlines the basic steps in developing comprehensive assistance services for victims of crime.
Abstract | PDF
 

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The threat of terrorism and mass violence against Americans has increased in recent years in the United States and abroad. Such acts leave victims with serious physical and emotional wounds and challenge government officials and communities to respond immediately with appropriate efforts. OVC develops programs and initiatives to support victims of domestic and international terrorism, as well as victims of global crimes such as international parental child abduction and tourist-targeted victimization. Through its Terrorism and International Victim Assistance Services Division, OVC offers assistance to these victims with the following programs: the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program (AEAP), International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP), Crime Victim Assistance Emergency Fund for Victims of Terrorism and Mass Violence (the Emergency Fund), and Victim Reunification Travel Program (VRT).

The following organizations, publications, and related resources provide additional information on the issues of terrorism and mass violence.

The threat of terrorism and mass violence against Americans has increased in recent years in the United States and abroad. Such acts leave victims with serious physical and emotional wounds and challenge government officials and communities to respond immediately with appropriate efforts. OVC develops programs and initiatives to support victims of domestic and international terrorism, as well as victims of global crimes such as international parental child abduction and tourist-targeted victimization. Through its Terrorism and International Victim Assistance Services Division, OVC offers assistance to these victims with the following programs: the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program (AEAP), International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP), Crime Victim Assistance Emergency Fund for Victims of Terrorism and Mass Violence (the Emergency Fund), and Victim Reunification Travel Program (VRT).

The following organizations, publications, and related resources provide additional information on the issues of terrorism and mass violence.

Each month the Nation's experts answer your questions about best practices in victim services. Below are upcoming and most recent session discussions in this topic:

On May 29 2007 at 2:00PM, Stephanie Frogge, Director of Survivor Services for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, and Helga West, Cofounder and President of Witness Justice, hosted a discussion on Providing Peer Support to Disaster Survivors

On Nov 30 2005 at 2:00PM, Angela McCown, founding Victim Services Director for the Texas Department of Public Safety, hosted a discussion on Mass Violence

The threat of terrorism and mass violence against Americans has increased in recent years in the United States and abroad. Such acts leave victims with serious physical and emotional wounds and challenge government officials and communities to respond immediately with appropriate efforts. OVC develops programs and initiatives to support victims of domestic and international terrorism, as well as victims of global crimes such as international parental child abduction and tourist-targeted victimization. Through its Terrorism and International Victim Assistance Services Division, OVC offers assistance to these victims with the following programs: the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program (AEAP), International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP), Crime Victim Assistance Emergency Fund for Victims of Terrorism and Mass Violence (the Emergency Fund), and Victim Reunification Travel Program (VRT).

The following organizations, publications, and related resources provide additional information on the issues of terrorism and mass violence.

Can a victim apply directly to OVC for funding?
Yes. Under the International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP), a U.S. nationa... Read More

Does OVC provide direct services for victims of crime?
Yes. OVC provides direct services to people victimized on Tribal or federal lands, such as military ... Read More

What is the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Grant Program?
The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) administers the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Progra... Read More

I am a U.S. citizen, living in another country, and I have been a victim of terrorism. How may I obtain assistance?
Victims of international terrorism may receive reimbursement from the International Terrorism Victim... Read More

What are school-based crisis response teams?
School Crisis Response Initiative, a bulletin from the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), provides a... Read More

More FAQs

The threat of terrorism and mass violence against Americans has increased in recent years in the United States and abroad. Such acts leave victims with serious physical and emotional wounds and challenge government officials and communities to respond immediately with appropriate efforts. OVC develops programs and initiatives to support victims of domestic and international terrorism, as well as victims of global crimes such as international parental child abduction and tourist-targeted victimization. Through its Terrorism and International Victim Assistance Services Division, OVC offers assistance to these victims with the following programs: the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program (AEAP), International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP), Crime Victim Assistance Emergency Fund for Victims of Terrorism and Mass Violence (the Emergency Fund), and Victim Reunification Travel Program (VRT).

The following organizations, publications, and related resources provide additional information on the issues of terrorism and mass violence.
Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program (PDF 158 kb)
Deadline: Open
See also the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program guidelines (appearing in the Federal Register, Vol. 67, No. 21, under Victims of Crime).

More Funding Opportunities

The threat of terrorism and mass violence against Americans has increased in recent years in the United States and abroad. Such acts leave victims with serious physical and emotional wounds and challenge government officials and communities to respond immediately with appropriate efforts. OVC develops programs and initiatives to support victims of domestic and international terrorism, as well as victims of global crimes such as international parental child abduction and tourist-targeted victimization. Through its Terrorism and International Victim Assistance Services Division, OVC offers assistance to these victims with the following programs: the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program (AEAP), International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP), Crime Victim Assistance Emergency Fund for Victims of Terrorism and Mass Violence (the Emergency Fund), and Victim Reunification Travel Program (VRT).

The following organizations, publications, and related resources provide additional information on the issues of terrorism and mass violence.

Publications

OVC and OVC-Sponsored Publications

OVC Report to the Nation 2011, Fiscal Years 2009-2010: Rising to the Challenge-A New Era in Victim Services (March 2012) OVC, 105 pages, NCJ 238061. This biennial report summarizes the programs, activities, and accomplishments of the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) in fiscal years 2009 and 2010, and their impact on victims, survivors, and communities. It describes the Crime Victims Fund-a significant resource for supporting services to victims; identifies enduring and emerging challenges in victim services; and discusses public awareness, education, and outreach endeavors. Each section summarizes victims' needs in that area and relates how funding from OVC makes a crucial difference in the lives of crime victims. This interactive document features four multimedia components.
Abstract | PDF (Fast Facts) | HTML
 
International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (2010) OVC, BC 000762. This brochure describes the International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP), which is authorized by Congress to reimburse eligible direct victims of acts of international terrorism that occur outside the United States for expenses associated with that victimization. It includes a list of the expenses that are eligible for reimbursement; explains the difference between itemized, interim emergency, and supplemental applications; and provides deadlines for filing a claim.
PDF
 
International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program--Report to Congress (2009) OVC, Report, 32 pages, NCJ 231686. This report outlines the activities and accomplishments of OVC's International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP) from June 2007 through August 2008. The report includes a background of the program, authorizing legislation, and funding structure; an explanation of the procedures for filing and processing applications for reimbursement; a description of the informational materials, tools, and outreach campaigns targeted at potential claimants and collaborating agencies and partners; a statistical analysis of applications received and victims assisted; lessons learned; and future program goals.
Abstract | PDF
 
Terrorism and International Victim Assistance Services (TIVAS) Brochure (April 2009) OVC, BC 000753. This brochure was developed for crime victims and service providers as a comprehensive, accessible source of information about specific programs that support victims of domestic and international terrorism and mass violence, as well as victims of global crimes, such as child abduction and tourist-targeted victimization. The programs described in this brochure are the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program, the International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program, the Crime Victim Assistance Emergency Fund, and the Victim Reunification Travel Program.
PDF
 
International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program--Report to Congress (October 2008) OVC, 39 pages, NCJ 222307. This report outlines the activities and accomplishments of OVC’s International Terrorism Victims Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP) from October 2006 through May 2007. The report includes a background of the program, authorizing legislation, and funding structure; an explanation of the procedures for filing and processing applications for reimbursement; a description of the policies, procedures, materials, and tools instituted to promote public awareness about the program; a statistical analysis of applications received and victims assisted; and future program needs and suggested improvements.
Abstract | PDF
 

OJP Publications

Mental Health Response to Mass Violence and Terrorism: A Field Guide (2005) Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 38 pages, NCJ 205452. This guide is intended for service providers and professionals in the mental health field providing the basics in responding and assisting those victims and families during the aftermath of mass violence and terrorism.
Abstract | PDF
 
Mental Health Response to Mass Violence and Terrorism: A Training Manual (January 2004) Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Report, 192 pages, NCJ 205451. This training manual provides guidance for developing and implementing training that will prepare mental health and crime-victim service providers with the knowledge and skill to help victims, survivors, and the community-at-large cope with and recover from terrorist and other events that involve mass violence.
Abstract | PDF
 
Handbook on Justice for Victims (1999) UNCCPCJ, 132 pages, NCJ 179083. In May 1996, the United Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, at its fifth session, adopted a resolution to develop a manual or manuals on the use and application of the Declaration. The Handbook on Justice for Victims was developed in response to that resolution and outlines the basic steps in developing comprehensive assistance services for victims of crime.
Abstract | PDF
 

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Related Resources

OVC Funded Resources

9-11 Healing and Remembrance
The 9-11 Healing and Remembrance Program is a program of the Mental Health Association of New York City (MHA-NYC), funded by OVC. The program aims to assist and support those affected by the 9-11 terrorist attacks as they travel and participate in 10th anniversary events.
 
9/11 Remembrance: Resources Compiled by OVC
This section of the OVC site contains a list of government and nonprofit organizations, programs, publications, and events related to September 11th and victims of terrorism. Created for the observance of the 10th anniversary of September 11, 2001, these resources continue to provide useful information and assistance to victim service professionals and the public.
 
Criminal Crisis Response Initiative (CCRI)
Funded by OVC, CCRI is a multidisciplinary training and technical assistance program designed to help communities meet the needs of the victims of an act of criminal mass victimization.
 
International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP)
If you believe that you or someone you know has been a victim of international terrorism, help may be available. An OVC initiative, ITVERP is a program authorized by Congress to reimburse eligible direct victims of acts of international terrorism that occur outside the United States for expenses associated with that victimization.
 

Federal Resources

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
The FBI is the principal investigative arm of the U.S. Department of Justice. Its mission is to protect the United States from terrorist and foreign intelligence activities; investigate violations of federal criminal law; and provide assistance to federal, state, local, and international agencies.
 
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): Tips and Public Leads
If you would like to provide information pertaining to the criminal acts or other possible terrorist activity, please report any information to your local Federal Bureau of Investigation field office. You also may use the Web site to report electronically over a secure Internet connection.
 
National Criminal Justice Reference Service (NCJRS)
NCJRS is a federally funded resource offering information on victimology and victim assistance, criminal justice, juvenile justice, information to support research, policy, and program development worldwide. NCJRS supplies the victim services field with resources, publications, and program information. The NCJRS library collection includes more than 30,000 resources relevant to the field.
 
September 11th Victim Compensation Fund
The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) has been reinstated and will provide compensation for any individual (or a personal representative of a deceased individual) who suffered physical harm or was killed as a result of the terrorist-related aircraft crashes of September 11, 2001, or the debris removal efforts that took place in the immediate aftermath of those crashes. On January 2, 2011, President Obama signed into law the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-347) which expands the pool of applicants eligible for the Fund to include individuals who experienced injuries associated with the attacks or subsequent debris removal. The VCF site allows users to obtain a list of the kinds of documents and information needed in order to process claims; register for the VCF online, the first step in submitting your claim; fill out an online eligibility form to determine VCF eligibility; submit a claim online; and review Frequently Asked Questions.
 
U.S. Department of State
The State Department is committed to assisting American citizens who become victims of crime while abroad and can help victims in two ways. Overseas: consular officers, agents, and staff work with crime victims and help them with the local police and medical systems. In the United States: the office of Overseas Citizens Services will stay in touch with family members in the United States, and help provide U.S.-based resources for the victim when possible.
 

Non-Governmental Resources

American Red Cross
In addition to domestic disaster relief, the American Red Cross offers compassionate services in five other areas: community services that help the needy; support and comfort for military members and their families; the collection, processing and distribution of lifesaving blood and blood products; educational programs that promote health and safety; and international relief and development programs.
 
HOPE Coalition
HOPE Coalition provides free and compassionate economic counseling to workers and families affected by disaster. Created after the September 11th attack on America and supported by many of America's leading financial institutions, HOPE Coalition is a national emergency management coalition that provides free economic counseling to workers and families affected by disaster.
 
International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT)
IRCT promotes and supports the rehabilitation of torture victims and works for the prevention of torture.
 
International Rescue Committee (IRC)
The IRC provides assistance to refugees, displaced persons and others fleeing persecution and violent conflict throughout the world. Often one of the first agencies on the scene of an emergency, the IRC delivers critical medical and public health services, food, and shelter. Once a crisis stabilizes, it provides education, training, economic assistance and, if necessary, resettlement assistance.
 
National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NOVAD)
NVOAD coordinates planning efforts by volunteer organizations responding to disaster. It provides training, leadership development, published resources, case studies, and performance critiques to participating groups.
 

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Web Forum Discussions

Each month the Nation's experts answer your questions about best practices in victim services. Below are upcoming and most recent session discussions in this topic:

On May 29 2007 at 2:00PM, Stephanie Frogge, Director of Survivor Services for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, and Helga West, Cofounder and President of Witness Justice, hosted a discussion on Providing Peer Support to Disaster Survivors

On Nov 30 2005 at 2:00PM, Angela McCown, founding Victim Services Director for the Texas Department of Public Safety, hosted a discussion on Mass Violence


FAQs

Can a victim apply directly to OVC for funding?
Yes. Under the International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP), a U.S. nationa... Read More

Does OVC provide direct services for victims of crime?
Yes. OVC provides direct services to people victimized on Tribal or federal lands, such as military ... Read More

What is the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Grant Program?
The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) administers the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Progra... Read More

I am a U.S. citizen, living in another country, and I have been a victim of terrorism. How may I obtain assistance?
Victims of international terrorism may receive reimbursement from the International Terrorism Victim... Read More

What are school-based crisis response teams?
School Crisis Response Initiative, a bulletin from the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), provides a... Read More

Back to Top

Funding

Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program (PDF 158 kb)
Deadline: Open
See also the Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program guidelines (appearing in the Federal Register, Vol. 67, No. 21, under Victims of Crime).

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