When a violent crime happens, and the police have left the scene, a victim is often left alone to wonder “why did this happen to me?” and “what did I do to deserve this?”. Project HELP has been helping victims of violent crime with crisis intervention and crisis response for more than 33 years.
A violent crime is an act in which the offender uses or threatens to use violent force upon a victim. The United States Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice lists the following five categories as violent crimes: Murder, Rape, Robbery, Aggravated Assault, and Simple Assault. Violent crimes are committed with and without the use of weapons.
Project HELP has a 24-hour HELPline that is always answered by a live advocate so that victims of violent crime have someone to talk to, work on coping skills and find information and referral. Our volunteers undergo extensive training to help victims — day or night — through one of the most horrific time of their life.,. Project HELP has the most resources available in Collier County to provide survivors find the help they need…even if that’s just someone to listen.
Our fully-trained staff of advocates have the ability to work with individuals from victimization through prosecution. A victim can meet confidentially with a counselor in our facility and receive services free of charge Our counselors help them deal with the crime committed by offering crisis intervention techniques, coping skills, support groups, and referrals to other agencies for matters that may arise during their counseling sessions. Fully-trained advocate located at the State Attorney’s office to assist with orders of protection, answer questions regarding their case, and provide accompaniment to all of the arraignments and trials associated with their victimization.
Our advocacy program also offers assistance in filing for Victim Compensation. When a victim reports to law enforcement and the investigation is moving forward, a victim may be eligible for Victim Compensation. This is a fund set aside by the State of Florida to assist victims of crime in certain monetary compensation. Our advocates are available to determine if this fund relates to the losses that occurred and can assist in the filing of the paperwork and follow up.
Violent crime can happen to anyone and Project HELP wants the community to know that we are here and will help in any way that is needed. We also provide services not only to the victim, but to the victims’ family, friends, or anyone that may have emotionally been affected by the crime. The statement, “time can heal all wounds” can be true in some cases, but in the case of a violent crime, victims could greatly benefit from the additional help and support from an organization such as Project HELP. If you feel you want someone to talk to, need help coping with your situation, navigation of the judicial system, or information and referral, Project HELP is willing and ready to assist. Call our office at (239) -649-1404 during regular business hours or you can contact our HELPline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (239)-262-7227. When life hurts, Project HELP is just a phone call away.