PA Violence Victims Demand Resources & Security
- Victims of violent crimes and their advocates are converging on Harrisburg Tuesday, seeking legislative action to bolster resources and security for those navigating traumatic experiences.
- Yolanda Jennings, a domestic abuse survivor who has lost family members to violence, is among those traveling to the state capitol.
- Jennings credits her faith and the ability to help others with her survival.
Pennsylvania crime victims and advocates are demanding action in Harrisburg, urging lawmakers to increase resources and security for those affected by violence. A coalition is championing three critical bills, supporting victim services and criminal justice reform. These measures include tenant rights protections, vocational credits, and employment leave provisions. They’re also requesting $5 million to establish trauma recovery centers in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and altoona. Yolanda Jennings, a domestic abuse survivor, is sharing her story to highlight the urgent need for change and promote rehabilitation. News Directory 3 is committed to bringing you the latest on this evolving story. Discover what’s next as Pennsylvania leaders consider these crucial demands and the impact they could have on the lives of countless individuals.
Pennsylvania Advocates Push for Crime Victim Resources, Security
Updated June 03, 2025
Victims of violent crimes and their advocates are converging on Harrisburg Tuesday, seeking legislative action to bolster resources and security for those navigating traumatic experiences. The coalition aims to put a face on the need for services, emphasizing that survivors can best articulate their needs.
Yolanda Jennings, a domestic abuse survivor who has lost family members to violence, is among those traveling to the state capitol. Jennings’ sister was fatally stabbed in 2004, and in 2019, her cousin was shot and killed. In 2024, her son was killed by police during a mental health crisis.
Jennings credits her faith and the ability to help others with her survival. She said her experiences now allow her to assist others through their trauma.she will join other crime victims, community members, and advocates to meet with Pennsylvania state leaders.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), visiting www.thehotline.org or texting LOVEIS to 22522.
The group is advocating for the passage of three key bills designed to provide extensive support for crime victims and promote rehabilitation. These include House Bill 72, wich addresses tenant rights in cases of violence; House Bill 1042, offering vocational and education credits for nonviolent offenders during their incarceration; and house Bill 964, which provides employment leave for victims of violence and their families. These legislative changes aim to improve victim services and criminal justice reform.
The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence reported 119 domestic violence-related deaths in Pennsylvania in 2022. The organization serves approximately 90,000 individuals annually.
Along with legislative changes, the coalition seeks $5 million in funding to establish three new trauma recovery centers in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Altoona.Currently, only one such center exists in Harrisburg.
What’s next
The advocates hope their presence in harrisburg will lead to meaningful discussions and ultimately, the passage of the proposed bills and increased funding for trauma recovery centers, providing vital support for crime victims across Pennsylvania.