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(AP) -- Programs in Illinois and other states that are designed to help crime victims rebuild their lives are running out of money as claims increase and medical expenses rise.

Each state offers crime victims and their survivors money to cover damages including lost wages, counseling, dental and medical bills and funerals.

Payouts range around $25,000.

The National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards reports that the programs provide about $450 million each year to about 200,000 victims.

Coordinators say more people are turning to the programs as they lose their jobs and benefits.

In Illinois, the program is funded each year by the legislature.

But as the recession deepens, that money is going to fill other shortfalls.

(Copyright ©2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)