The Office of the Victim Advocate offers limited financial help for funeral and burial expenses after a homicide.
The Homicide Victim Funeral Assistance (HVFA) program can provide timely support during the earliest stages of loss while families navigate next steps.
Overview
As of March 1, 2026, the Homicide Victim Funeral Assistance (HVFA) program offers up to $2,000 in financial assistance towards funeral and burial expenses of homicide victims in Philadelphia.
Eligible expenses may include:
- Funeral home services
- Burial or cremation services
- Casket or urn
- Burial plot
- Pre- and post-service gathering venue
- Printing of funeral programs or announcements
- Headstone
Payments are made directly to a funeral home, cemetery, or related service provider. We cannot send payments directly to individuals or families, or reimburse you if you have already paid out of pocket.
Eligible families can also apply to the Pennsylvania Victim Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP) for up to $6,500 in additional reimbursement from the state. This state program may also be available if you have already paid funeral-related expenses out of pocket.
Who is eligible
You may be eligible if:
- The homicide occurred within the City of Philadelphia
- The death has been officially ruled a homicide
- The homicide occurred on or after March 1, 2026. This program is not retroactive.
How to apply
Applications can be submitted online by:
- A family member
- A funeral service provider
- A trusted community partner
The program can only accept one application per homicide victim.
You will receive a decision within 48 hours after you submit your application.