Even as crime rates continue to decline across New York, advocates say survivors of violence still face barriers when seeking help. This week, nearly 400 survivors, advocates, and government partners came together in Albany for the New York State Office of Victim Services’ (OVS) conference, The Power of Connection.
The event focused on building stronger networks and resources for survivors, especially in cases where law enforcement is overwhelmed.
“Not everyone has had a great experience with law enforcement or other agencies,” said Lily Morgan, a survivor and member of the OVS Advisory Council. “But there are people out there who already care about you, and they want to help you. I’m not sure what direction my life would have taken if I hadn’t had access to the resources I did.”…