Local victim advocates groups in limbo

Justice Coalition, Compassionate Families at risk

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Victim advocates groups like the Justice Coalition and Compassionate Families are essential for helping people cope with tragedy. But two local organizations are basically in limbo. And for one of those groups, operations are at a standstill.

The Justice Coalition has been operating without an executive director. Plus, there have been big money problems since the state cut funding by about 150-thousand dollars.

With Compassionate Families, the situation is a little different. Since its founder, Glen Mitchell died earlier this year, it is now operating on a strictly volunteer basis. There's not enough money and not enough people available to work to carry out the mission.

Since founder, Glen Mitchell's death in January, his daughter said the organization's future is basically in limbo.

"Just for even the new survivors that I know are needing assistance, we don't have anyone available," said Melissa Mitchell.

Not enough people to help and not enough money- but the need to serve hasn't gone away.

For decades, Compassionate Families worked hands on with people who lost loved ones to murder. Events like Camp Maddie made a difference and helped children cope with loss.

"I really don't want to let those things go away. It's just hard to do it by myself," said Mitchell.

Equally impactful to the community is the Justice Coalition. For years, its advocates would provide comfort to crime victims and surviving family members. They would often accompany them to and from court, and hold events regularly.

Officials with the Coalition tell News4Jax state funding was cut from $300,000 to $150,000- making day to day operations extremely difficult.

Furthermore, the group has been operating without an executive director since the most recent hire was let go- also because of money issues.

Both of these groups really need help from the public.  OnThursday, the Justice Coalition is holding a breakfast to garner some support.

If you would like more information on Compassionate Families, you can visit their Facebook page


About the Author:

Ashley Harding joined the Channel 4 news team in March 2013. She reports for and anchors The Morning Show.