California Governor Gavin Newsom recognized April 24-April 30 as Crime Victims' Rights Week in California.

In a letter, Newsom wrote that "we celebrate the energy, perseverance and commitment that launched the victims' rights movement and continue to advance the cause of fairness and justice."

The theme of this year's observance is "rights, access, equity, for all victims."

We're honored that Governor Newsom has spotlighted the importance of this week and the need to support victims of crime, as well as their families," said California Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB) Executive Officer Lynda Gledhill. "This year's theme reminds us of our goal to serve every victim of crime whenever possible."

In 1965, California was the first state in the nation to establish a victim compensation program. California was also the first to open a hospital-based rape treatment center and a domestic violence shelter.In fiscal year 2020-21, CalVCB helped more than 35,000 people and paid $52.7 million in compensation.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and CalVCB has many resources for survivors of sexual assault. CalVCB can help sexual assault victims with medical bills, relocation costs, home security measures, mental health counseling and other crime-related expenses.

Anyone who has been a victim of sexual assault can seek help from WEAVE by calling (916) 920-2952 or the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline by calling (800) 656-4673. They can also visit CalVCB's website, victims.ca.gov, or call (800) 777-9229 for assistance filing an application with CalVCB.