This year’s theme is Connecting, KINSHIP, Healing

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH - In recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, Cuyahoga County honors the resilience of crime victims, and reaffirms its commitment to supporting survivors by commemorating the ten-year anniversary of the Family Justice Center. The Family Justice Center opened its doors in 2015 and has since served as a vital resource for crime victims and their families. To date, the center has assisted over 12,000 individuals to navigate the justice system, and to find safety and healing.

“The victim advocates at the Family Justice Center do exceptionally hard work and provide compassionate assistance to every visitor,” said Kimberlee Bizup, Manager of the County’s Witness Victim Services. “Experiencing or witnessing violence is extremely traumatic and the justice system is complex. We are acutely aware that everyone's situation is different and figuring out next steps is hard. Our job is to provide that safe space where victims can be heard, supported, and empowered.”

By streamlining coordination with law enforcement, advocates, legal professionals, and social services, the Family Justice Center is a centralized resource for victims of crime. This partnered effort allows for collaborative information sharing and quicker access to support for victims. The center serves individuals dealing with domestic violence, stalking, and crimes related to family violence. Staff at the Family Justice Center can help clients with protection orders, safety planning, communicating with police and prosecutors and referrals for counseling and other services.

Observed since 1981, National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is a time to raise awareness about victim’s rights and celebrate the work of advocates and service providers. The week also serves as a reminder of the continued need for equitable access to services and a right to justice for all survivors. 

This year’s theme of KINSHIP is a call to action to recognize that shared humanity should be at the center of supporting all survivors and victims of crime. KINSHIP is a state of being with survivors that drives vital connections to services, rights, and healing. KINSHIP is where victim advocacy begins.

Learn more information about the Family Justice Center. If you or someone you know is in need of victim’s services, or to make a referral to the Family Justice Center, call 216-443-7345.