The DC Victim Hotline has compiled a list of frequently needed resources related to homicide and Grief. This is not an exhaustive list of options available to you. The resources listed consist of both national and local resources. If you are interested in resources in jurisdictions other than the District of Columbia (such as Maryland and Virginia) please visit VictimConnect Resource Center.
For an individualized plan, please reach out to a DC Victim Hotline Victim Service Specialist, here.
DC Resources
The Wendt Center: With nationally recognized expertise, the Wendt Center for Loss and Healing is a premier resource for restoring hope and healthy functioning to adults, teens and children who are coping with grief, loss and trauma in the Greater Washington region. Make an appointment by calling 202-624-0010. You can also visit the Wendt Center’s About Grief page for general suggestions on the grieving process, seeking help, and common reactions.
Volare: Volare provides free, holistic, and trauma-informed advocacy, legal, and therapeutic services to survivors of any type of crime in the District of Columbia. We believe in survivor-defined care, healing, and justice. This means that only survivors can make decisions about what healing and justice look like for them. Volare provides resources and support to survivors making those decisions. Call at 202-742-1727.
Crime Victim Compensation: The Crime Victims Compensation Program provides financial assistance and reimbursement to innocent victims of violent crime and their families with crime-related expenses. Call 202-879-4216, mail an application, or email [email protected].
MPD Victim Services Branch: MPD’s Victim Services Branch provides support, information, and referrals to victims and their families. Call at 202-727-9099 MPD Family Liaison Specialists Unit: The Family Liaison Specialists Unit (FLSU) is committed to responding to the critical needs and concerns of the family members (survivors) of homicide victims. Members of this unit support survivors by acting as a liaison between the detective investigating the case and the survivor. Contact at 202-645-6363.
National Resources
How to Help a Grieving Child: produced by the Dougy Center, the National Center for Grieving Children and Families, provides guidance on supporting grieving children.
Compassionate Friends: supports families after a child died through online support, a crisis hotline, and local chapter meetings.
Parents of Murdered Children: provides support to families and friends of those who have died by violence through monthly chapter meetings and an annual conference.
MADD: operates a 24-hour Victim Help Line at 877-MADD-HELP (877-623-3435) and has supportive literature for those who have lost a loved one to drunk or impaired driving.
Concerns of Police Survivors: offers retreats, provides training, and organizes special events for survivors of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty.
Justice for Homicide Victims: operates a support hotline at (310) 457-0030. They offer support in dealing with the pain and suffering associated with the homicide and help in coping with a complex legal system and law enforcement officials by providing an understanding of their role in the criminal justice system.
More Resources & Information
Visit our Homicide and Grief Information Page to learn more.
To address the trauma and grief associated with homicide, visit our Mental Health & Self Care page.
