DVSSP Announces Federal Funding Reduction Impacting Local Services for Survivors
Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern Pennsylvania (DVSSP) has received notice of an upcoming reduction in federal funding through the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), a primary source of support for victim service agencies nationwide.
Beginning October 1, 2026, VOCA-funded agencies across Pennsylvania will experience a 7.5% reduction in funding for the 2026–2027 grant year. According to the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s 2025–2027 VOCA Year 2 Allocation Table, DVSSP’s allocation for services in Washington, Greene, and Fayette counties will total $604,333 for the upcoming funding period.
VOCA funding supports essential services for survivors of domestic violence and other crimes, including:
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Emergency safe housing
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Legal advocacy
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Therapy
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Prevention and education programming
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Mobile advocacy and empowerment classes
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DVSSP’s 24/7 confidential helpline
This federal funding is drawn from the Crime Victims Fund (CVF), which is financed through fines and penalties from federal criminal convictions rather than taxpayer dollars. Since 2017, deposits into the fund have declined significantly nationwide, resulting in reduced funding for victim service providers in Pennsylvania and across the country.
“VOCA funding plays a critical role in helping agencies like DVSSP provide free and confidential support services to survivors of abuse. While these funds are intended to supplement existing state and local support, reductions can impact our ability to meet growing community needs.”
Megan Hegedus, CEO, DVSSP
VOCA funds do not fully cover the cost of services provided by DVSSP. The organization relies on a combination of federal and state funding, foundation grants, corporate partnerships, individual donations, and community support to ensure services remain available to those seeking safety and stability.
As funding landscapes continue to shift, community investment remains vital to sustaining services for survivors and their families. Financial contributions, in-kind donations, and volunteer support allow DVSSP to respond flexibly to client needs that may not be fully covered through grant funding.
DVSSP remains committed to its mission to end domestic violence by empowering survivors, raising awareness, and creating safer communities throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania.
Community members interested in supporting DVSSP’s services can learn more at peacefromdv.org/get-involved.
