Senate Resolution No. 736

BY: Senator COMRIE

COMMENDING the Crime Victims Advocate Program of
Kew Gardens, New York, upon the occasion of hosting
an event highlighting crime victims' rights
"Honoring Our Past, Creating Hope for the Future" on
April 10, 2019

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize that
the quality and character of life in the communities across New York
State are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those
organizations and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare
of the community and its citizenry; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend the Crime Victims Advocate Program of Kew Gardens, New York,
upon the occasion of hosting an event highlighting crime victims' rights
"Honoring Our Past, Creating Hope for the Future" to be celebrated on
Wednesday, April 10, 2019; and

WHEREAS, This auspicious event is held each year in conjunction with
National Crime Victims' Rights Week which will be held April 7-13, 2019;
this year's theme will recognize the progress made by those before us as
we look to a future of crime victim services that is even more
inclusive, accessible, and trauma-informed; and

WHEREAS, Every man, woman and child who is victimized by crime in
America deserves to be treated with dignity and compassion, and merits
services and support to help them in the aftermath of crime; and

WHEREAS, Each year, one American household in three is affected by a
serious crime each year; these victims may feel shock, anger or shame;
and

WHEREAS, The Crime Victims Advocate Program (CVAP) was established
by the Queens District Attorney's Officer to ensure crime victims are
treated with respect and understanding throughout their contact with the
criminal justice system; and

WHEREAS, The CVAP assists felony crime victims with practical
difficulties they may face because they were victimized; they may
receive general information about the criminal justice system, details
about the prosecution of the person who victimized them, information
about how to apply for financial compensation for certain crime related
expenses and transportation to and from court appearances when needed;
and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who
enhance the well-being and vitality of their community and have shown a
long and sustained commitment to excellence certainly have earned the
recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend the Crime Victims Advocate Program of Kew Gardens, New York,
upon the occasion of hosting an event highlighting crime victims' rights
"Honoring Our Past, Creating Hope for the Future" on April 10, 2019; and
be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Crime Victims Advocate Program.