Emergency Fund Program

Assistance Crime Victims
Can Access

The Crime Victim Emergency Fund assists with expenses such as rent, utilities, moving expenses, short-term emergency shelter, transportation, and more. As a survivor of crime, your financial hardship needs to be directly connected to a recent crime.

How it Works

Through a federal grant, COVA electronically distributes funds directly to vendors, such as landlords, to support victims of crime. Victim advocates submit applications on behalf of the victims they serve.

Please note: Applications cannot be submitted directly by victims. If you need assistance, please reach out to a victim advocate who can initiate the application process for you. 

Obtain Emergency Funds

Funds are available in Colorado that can help crime victims during times of need. To get started, contact a local victim advocate through a community-based advocacy organization or a systems-based advocate connected to your local law enforcement agency. Search our resource directory to find a resource near you.

Emergency Fund Program FAQs

How do I get emergency funds?

Victim Advocates apply for emergency funds on behalf of victims and survivors. Contact a Victim Advocate in your Judicial District by calling a law enforcement agency or community-based victim advocacy organization.

What expenses can the Emergency Fund cover?
  • Rent
    • If you have roommates that are not family members, the total rent will be divided by the number of tenants to pay your portion of the rent
  • Groceries
  • Hygiene items
    • Basic household products (e.g. toilet paper, paper towels, detergent, pet food, etc.)
  • Emergency hotel stay
    • Up to five nights in a hotel if you have an immediate safety concern
  • Childcare from a licensed child care facility
  • Storage fees
  • Short-term nursing home shelter at a licensed facility
  • Moving expenses
  • Bus, air, train tickets
Do I have to report the crime to the police to be eligible for assistance?

No, you don’t have to report the crime to be eligible for emergency funds.

Are there limitations to eligibility for emergency funds?

Yes, please click here to see the Emergency Fund Program eligibility parameters.

How are payments made once an application is approved?

Payments are made electronically, directly to the vendor (e.g. landlord).