An Update on VOCA Funding
Dear Friends of CARE House,
Over the past year, I’ve communicated with you about changes at the federal and state levels that affect our funding and our ability to serve the children and families who come through our doors desperate for help.
For more than 40 years, a portion of CARE House's funding has come from the federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA). These funds are not taxpayer dollars. Rather, they come from restitution paid by convicted criminals.
In recent days, we learned of significant cuts that will take effect beginning October 1, 2026.
For CARE House, and more importantly for the child victims of abuse who come to us every day, this means a loss of approximately $300,000 annually, nearly 10% of our operating budget.
At a time when the need for our services continues to grow, this reduction is especially concerning. It is estimated that 1 in 5 children will experience sexual abuse before their 18th birthday, while rising online exploitation, extortion, and manipulation are creating new risks for children and families.
What will not change is our commitment to every child who needs us. Children who disclose abuse will still find a safe place to tell their story. Families will still receive advocacy, support, and healing services. CARE House will continue to stand beside children when they need us most.
We expect this funding reduction to be long-term, which means we must increasingly rely on philanthropy to help bridge the gap.
Together, we can make the difference. Every gift and every person who believes that it shouldn't hurt to be a child helps ensure a child receives the protection, support, and healing they deserve. Your compassion can help transform fear into safety and trauma into healing.
In the coming weeks, you will hear more from me about how you can help replace these lost funds and ensure that every child receives the care they need.
With your support, CARE House will continue to be here for children and families, today and for years to come.
In the meantime, I welcome your questions and conversation.
Thank you for believing that it shouldn’t hurt to be a child.
Blythe Tyler, President & CEO
Questions? Email information@carehouse.org