about the program:

The Fatal State Violence (FSV) Response Program is a strategic initiative anchored by Faith for Justice and ArchCity Defenders.

We support surviving families of those killed by the police and/or who died in state custody in the St. Louis region. Our services are free, volunteer-run, and open to all surviving families.

Join the Response Team! To volunteer, email FSVResponse@gmail.com and let us know your interest in the program. Applications for the next Crisis Responders cohort open in May 2022.

Crisis Response Hotline 314.643.6244

If you want to report a death in custody, police shooting or issue of fatal state violence, please call the hotline.

What we do

The FSV Response Program’s core components are: 

 Crisis response

Trained, volunteer teams equipped with trauma-informed techniques support families in the immediate aftermath of losing a loved one and with ongoing organizing.

Holistic, supportive services

The FSV Response Program connects with communities of survivors, namely families of those killed by police or who died while in jail custody, to provide ongoing social support and connection to resources like attorneys, mental health providers, and accompaniment to court or other government agencies. 

Community building and advocacy

Every third Friday of the month, we hold space for healing practices, power building, political education, and grassroots organizing to fight for justice and create change with families and communities impacted by FSV.