When a person experiences domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or trafficking, one of the biggest challenges they face is finding safe and stable housing. In Indiana, the Safe Path Home initiative was designed to ensure survivors have access to secure housing and supportive resources.
Along with other state and federally funded programs, survivors can get immediate assistance for housing, relocation, and financial stability.
What is Safe Path Home?
Safe Path Home is a housing navigation initiative in Indiana that connects survivors of violent crime with coordinated entry systems. This ensures they are quickly matched with safe housing, emergency shelter, or rapid re-housing services.
Survivors don’t have to navigate the complicated housing system alone—advocates help guide them step by step.
The program works alongside statewide housing providers, shelters, and advocacy organizations to make sure survivors and their families find long-term stability and avoid homelessness.
Housing Assistance Options for Indiana Crime Victims
Victims of violent crimes in Indiana may be eligible for several forms of housing-related support:
1. Emergency Shelter & Transitional Housing
Survivors can immediately access emergency shelters to escape dangerous environments. Transitional housing programs then provide longer-term solutions, ensuring families can rebuild their lives safely.
2. Rapid Re-Housing Programs
Certain Indiana programs offer rental assistance for up to 24 months, along with supportive case management. This helps survivors move directly into permanent housing without prolonged shelter stays.
3. Emergency Flexible Funds
Through federal VOCA (Victims of Crime Act) and DVPT (Domestic Violence Prevention and Treatment) funds, survivors can get emergency financial assistance for:
- Rent and security deposits
- Utility deposits and arrears
- Transportation related to relocation
These funds are typically paid directly to landlords or vendors, not to the victim.
4. Address Confidentiality Program (ACP)
For survivors worried about being located, Indiana offers the ACP, which provides a substitute address and mail-forwarding services. This protects victims’ privacy when signing leases, registering to vote, or applying for benefits.
5. Victim Compensation Fund
Indiana’s Violent Crime Victim Compensation Program reimburses up to $15,000 for expenses such as medical bills, counseling, and lost wages. However, housing costs like rent and relocation are not covered by this program. These are instead handled by Safe Path Home and VOCA-funded housing supports.
Who Qualifies for Housing Assistance?
Eligibility typically includes survivors of:
- Domestic or dating violence
- Sexual assault
- Stalking
- Human trafficking
Children of survivors may also be included in services. Applications and assessments are completed through local advocates who determine which housing option fits best.
Step-by-Step: How to Access Housing Help
- Contact a local victim advocate – Start by reaching out to a domestic violence or sexual assault service provider.
- Request Safe Path Home navigation – This ensures you are connected to coordinated entry for housing.
- Apply for emergency housing funds – Advocates can request VOCA/DVPT assistance on your behalf.
- Secure privacy through ACP – If needed, register for the Address Confidentiality Program.
- Apply for victim compensation separately – Covering medical, counseling, and lost wages, but not housing.
Comparison of Indiana Housing Resources
| Program/Resource | What it Provides | Duration/Limit | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safe Path Home | Navigation through coordinated entry for housing | Ongoing | Survivors of crime |
| Emergency Shelter | Immediate safe housing | Short-term | Victims in danger |
| Transitional Housing | Longer-term housing while stabilizing | Several months | Survivors & families |
| Rapid Re-Housing | Rental assistance & case management | Up to 24 months | DV/SA survivors |
| VOCA/DVPT Funds | Rent, deposits, utilities, transport | Emergency/need-based | Crime victims |
| Address Confidentiality Program | Substitute address & mail forwarding | 4 years, renewable | Victims fearing harm |
| Victim Compensation Fund | Medical, counseling, lost wages | Up to $15,000 | Bodily injury victims |
The Safe Path Home initiative and related housing assistance programs give Indiana crime victims a clear pathway to safe, stable, and private housing.
With a combination of emergency shelter, rapid re-housing, flexible funding, and privacy protections, survivors can begin rebuilding their lives without the fear of homelessness or exposure.
By reaching out to advocates and using the right programs, every survivor has the opportunity to find a safe path home.
FAQs
Can Indiana’s Victim Compensation Fund help me pay rent?
No, it does not cover rent or relocation. Housing costs are handled through Safe Path Home and VOCA-funded programs.
How long can I get rental assistance under re-housing programs?
Some programs provide support for up to 24 months, depending on availability and need.
How can I keep my new address safe from an abuser?
You can enroll in the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP), which allows you to use a substitute address instead of your real one.