Innovative Policies and Programs: How Harris County is Working to Support Survivors of Crime

• In Event: Lightning Talk: Criminology and Criminal Justice from Classroom to Boardroom: Teaching, Research, and Related Agencies

Abstract

Harris County, TX is the third largest metropolitan area in the United States, and the largest county in Texas. Recognizing the need to foster healthy and safe communities, the County has been implementing innovative policies and programs to better assist and support survivors of crime. Among these are the Model U visa Certification Policy, with the accompanying dashboard, the Domestic Violence Assistance Fund (DVAF), and the Domestic Violence High Risk Team (DVHRT). What the County has implemented, in addition to successes and drawbacks, as well as what the County is currently working on, will be discussed.

Author

• Veronyka James, Harris County - Houston, TX