INDIANAPOLIS -- There's a new program designed to help crime victims in Indianapolis.
IMPD just received a $150,000 grant to use in thesix focus areas which include just 4.7 percent of the city's population, but reported 30 percent of Indianapolis homicides in 2015.
"We're actually thrilled about the opportunity to assist victims with housing and emergency food, that type of thing. It's really going to make a difference in what we can do and how we can help victims," said Lisa Brown, Metro Police Victims Assistance Unit.
The grant goes beyond the type of help typically provided by the department's victim's assistance unit.
It will provide emergency relocation and housing assistance. Victims of crime can also get counseling and mental health services.
Police professionals will help victims develop a follow up safety plan, and the grant will provide education and employment help.
"We're very hopeful we can start to have some affect by saying yes, we realize you were a victims. And these are the things we can link you to and help you with," said Brown.
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