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Lakeidra Chavis for The Trace

Illinois Has A Program to Compensate Victims Of Violent Crimes. Few Applicants Receive Funds

Less than 40 percent of applicants are compensated, but many more never apply in the first place.

Citywide

Are You — Or Is Someone You Know — A Survivor Of A Shooting In Illinois? This Program Can Help Cover Expenses

The state's Crime Victim Compensation Program reimburses victims of violent crime for costs related to injury and loss.

Citywide

How We Reported On Illinois’ Victim Compensation Program

A review of thousands of records showed the state program struggles to reach survivors in need, and paid out claims in less than half of all cases.

Citywide

In Chicago’s Roseland Neighborhood, A Mix Of Grief And Perseverance

Most stories about violence focus on neighborhoods with extremely high murder rates. Residents of Roseland experience a more typical cadence of shootings.

Roseland, Pullman

Introducing ‘Aftershocks,’ A Series About The After Effects Of Gun Violence In Chicago

Thousands of people are shot in the Chicago area each year, sending waves of shock and grief throughout the city.

Citywide

Chicago Expands Violence Reduction Committee’s Membership, Increases Transparency

Following The Trace’s reporting on the composition and secrecy of the committee, Mayor Lightfoot has invited more organizations to participate.

Citywide

Lori Lightfoot Promised Chicago’s Violence Reduction Committee Would Be Transparent. Its One Meeting So Far Was Closed to the Public

Some anti-violence groups were surprised to learn the task force had met at all. Others want to know why the committee doesn’t include more grassroots programs and community members.

Citywide

A Promising Violence Prevention Program In Chicago Faces A Massive Budget Setback

READI addresses shootings by tackling joblessness, but its future is in doubt without public funding.

Austin, Garfield Park, North Lawndale

Already Fighting One Public Health Crisis, Chicago’s Gun Violence Interrupters Take On Coronavirus

Street outreach workers are doubling as messengers on avoiding infection.

Englewood, Chatham, Auburn Gresham