National Crime Victims’ Rights Week 2025: Recognizing Shared Humanity in Supporting Survivors

As National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) approaches, the 911 Cell Phone Bank joins advocates and communities across the country to honor survivors of crime and highlight the importance of access to critical services. Taking place from April 6 – 12, this year’s theme, “Connecting < KINSHIP > Healing,” emphasizes the shared humanity that binds communities to survivors, inspiring action to ensure no victim is left unsupported. 

Despite decades of progress, many survivors face significant barriers to accessing services that protect their rights, offer safety, and foster healing. Advocacy programs, which often operate with limited funding, struggle to advertise their resources, leaving victims unaware of life-saving support. Community involvement is essential in breaking down these barriers. From raising awareness to spreading the word about available services, everyone has a role in ensuring victims’ rights are upheld. 

“Advocates are often the first lifeline for victims,” said Susan Shipp, Public Relations Coordinator of the 911 Cell Phone Bank. “They provide emotional support, connect survivors to essential services, and help them navigate complex systems. But advocates cannot do this work alone—it requires a community-wide effort.” 

The 911 Cell Phone Bank supports advocacy programs by providing donated cell phones to victims and survivors. These phones can serve as tools for escaping dangerous situations or staying connected as victims transition into survivors. By collaborating with law enforcement and advocacy organizations, the program ensures that victims’ rights to safety and privacy are upheld. 

Community members can also play an active role in supporting victims and advocates to create a circle of kinship within your community. Businesses with unclaimed devices in lost and found programs or property rooms can donate these items to the 911 Cell Phone Bank, enabling them to be recycled and repurposed for survivors. Each small contribution helps build a larger network of support for victims. 

As we observe NCVRW, let us commit to recognizing the humanity of survivors and empowering them to rebuild their lives. By working together—advocates, law enforcement, and communities—we can remove barriers and create a culture of healing and connection. 

For more information about National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, visit The Department of Justice, Office of Victims website at ovc.ojp.gov/program/national-crime-victims-rights-week. To learn how you can support the 911 Cell Phone Bank, visit www.911CellPhoneBank.org or call 866-290-7864. 

About the 911 Cell Phone Bank:

Founded to provide critical communication tools to victims of crime, the 911 Cell Phone Bank partners with law enforcement and advocacy organizations nationwide. Through the donation and recycling of cell phones, the program ensures survivors have access to the resources they need to escape danger, communicate securely, and rebuild their lives.