Victim Services & Advocacy
A critical service area at the heart of Hug A Child NFP's mission. Compassionate support for individuals and families impacted by violence, trauma, loss, and difficult life circumstances.
Trauma-Informed Support When You Need It Most
Violence, loss, and trauma have lasting impacts on individuals and families. Beyond the immediate crisis, survivors often navigate grief, safety concerns, physical and emotional healing, housing instability, employment challenges, and barriers to accessing support.
Hug A Child NFP provides trauma-informed, compassionate support to help individuals and families navigate these challenges, access resources, and move toward healing and stability.
You are not alone. We're here to listen, support, and help.
We Understand
- • The impact of community violence on individuals, families, and entire neighborhoods
- • Grief, trauma, and the long-term effects of loss
- • The barriers survivors face in accessing support and resources
- • The courage it takes to seek help and build a safer future
- • The strength and resilience within individuals and families
Our Victim Services & Advocacy
Advocacy & Support
Our advocates provide compassionate, non-judgmental support to help you navigate the aftermath of violence or trauma. We listen, validate your experience, and help you identify what you need.
- • Emotional support and crisis stabilization
- • Safety planning and protective measures
- • Advocacy with institutions and systems
- • Referrals to specialized services
Resource Navigation
Navigating support systems is difficult, especially during crisis. We help individuals and families access the resources they need—from emergency assistance to long-term support.
- • Housing and emergency assistance
- • Benefits and government programs
- • Mental health and behavioral health services
- • Employment and financial stability support
Grief & Loss Support
Loss from community violence creates deep, lasting grief. We provide compassionate spaces for individuals and families to process grief, honor their loved ones, and find pathways toward healing.
- • Grief circles and support spaces
- • Peer support and community connection
- • Memorialization and healing rituals
- • Long-term healing support
Case Management
We provide coordinated case management to ensure you receive comprehensive, integrated support addressing multiple needs affecting your family's stability and well-being.
- • Assessment of needs and barriers
- • Coordinated care planning
- • Connection to community partners
- • Ongoing follow-up and support
Our Approach to Victim Services
Trauma-Informed
We understand how trauma affects behavior, decisions, and relationships. Every interaction is grounded in safety, choice, and empowerment.
Confidential & Safe
Your privacy and safety are paramount. We maintain strict confidentiality and take every precaution to keep you safe.
Compassionate
We meet you with deep compassion and without judgment. Your experience matters, and you deserve support.
Culturally Responsive
We honor your culture, values, and identity. Our support is responsive to the unique experiences of Chicago's communities.
You Are Not Alone
If you or someone you know has been impacted by violence, trauma, or loss, we are here to help. Reaching out is a sign of strength.
Request Support
Fill Out FormEmergency Crisis
988
National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline available 24/7
Questions?
Is there a cost for victim services? ▼
No. Victim services and advocacy are provided at no cost. We believe support should never be conditional on ability to pay.
How confidential is the service? ▼
Your privacy is protected. We maintain strict confidentiality of all information you share with us. There are limited exceptions (such as immediate safety concerns) that we will discuss with you.
What if I'm not sure if I need help? ▼
That's okay. Call us to talk about what you're experiencing. We can help you figure out what support might be helpful. There's no judgment—only understanding.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. We're here to support you.