Losing a loved one to homicide is an unimaginable tragedy—one that brings not only profound grief, but also shock, anger, fear, and a long road toward healing. In the aftermath of violence, families are often left to navigate overwhelming emotions while trying to make sense of sudden loss, media attention, and the complexities of the legal system.
At the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence, we offer compassionate, trauma-informed services to individuals and families coping with the loss of a loved one to murder or manslaughter. Whether the loss was recent or occurred years ago, we are here to provide comfort, guidance, and a community of support for the long journey ahead.
Services include:
- Crisis response and emotional support in the immediate aftermath of a homicide
- Individual and family counseling to help process traumatic grief
- Support groups where survivors can connect and share with others who understand their pain
- Court accompaniment and legal advocacy to help families navigate the criminal justice system with clarity and support
- Assistance with crime victims’ compensation applications and referrals to financial and legal resources
- Help planning memorials or coping with significant dates and anniversaries
- Long-term follow-up and support to ensure no one has to grieve alone
You do not have to walk this path by yourself. Whether you need someone to sit with you in your pain, help you understand your rights, or connect you to others who have experienced a similar loss—we are here. Healing doesn’t mean forgetting. It means honoring your loved one’s life while learning how to carry your grief with support, care, and community.
Counseling
Our individual grief counseling services offer a safe, supportive space to heal from the trauma of losing a loved one, explore personal challenges, build emotional resilience, and find clarity. Our professional counseling staff is here to help their clients navigate with non-judgmental, compassionate care.
Case Management
Our Case Management service connects individuals and families with the resources they need to thrive. We provide personalized support, helping you navigate housing, healthcare, employment, and other essential services to promote stability and self-sufficiency.
Court Accompaniment
Our trauma-informed staff can provide compassionate support to survivors of homicide victims as they navigate the legal system. Trained advocates attend court proceedings with families, offering emotional support, guidance, and clear information about what to expect throughout the process.
Information & Referral
Whether you’re looking for counseling, legal assistance, housing, or other community services, our knowledgeable staff can guide you to the right help. We’re here to listen and link you to trusted support when you need it most.
Mississippi Crime Victims Compensation Program
The Mississippi Crime Victims Compensation Program administered by the MS Attorney General’s Office helps ease the financial burden for victims of violent crime and their families. It provides reimbursement for certain out-of-pocket expenses that result directly from the crime, such as medical bills, funeral costs, counseling, lost wages, and more. This support is available to eligible victims and survivors regardless of whether an arrest or conviction has been made, as long as the crime was reported and the application is submitted within the required timeframe.
For many families, this program is a vital lifeline during an incredibly difficult time. Our advocates are available to help you understand your eligibility, gather documentation, and complete the application process.