At Pillars Community Health, we stand firmly in solidarity with survivors of sexual assault and are committed to providing comprehensive services to those affected by this trauma. Join us this SAAM as we shine a light on the importance of supporting survivors and fostering a culture of consent, respect, and empowerment.
Understanding Sexual Assault
Sexual assault can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. It’s a deeply traumatic experience that can have long-lasting effects on survivors. It’s crucial to understand that sexual assault is never the fault of the survivor and that support and resources are available.
How Pillars Community Health Can Help
Pillars Community Health offers a range of services to support survivors of sexual assault:
- Crisis Intervention: Our crisis intervention services provide immediate support to survivors in the aftermath of a sexual assault. Trained professionals are available 24/7 to provide crisis counseling, safety planning, and assistance in accessing medical care and legal resources.
- Counseling and Therapy: We offer individual and group counseling for survivors of sexual assault to address trauma, process emotions, and develop coping strategies for healing and recovery. Our licensed therapists provide a safe and supportive environment for survivors to explore their feelings and experiences at their own pace.
- Medical Advocacy: Our medical advocacy program accompanies survivors to medical appointments, offering emotional support, information, and advocacy throughout the healthcare process. We work closely with hospitals and healthcare providers to ensure survivors receive compassionate and trauma-informed care.
- Legal Advocacy: Our legal advocacy services provide survivors with information, resources, and support in navigating the legal system. We can assist with filing protective orders, accessing legal representation, and understanding the legal options available to survivors.
- Prevention Education: Pillars Community Health is committed to preventing sexual assault through education and outreach. We offer workshops, trainings, and community events to raise awareness about consent, healthy relationships, and bystander intervention.
How You Can Support
There are many ways you can support survivors and contribute to the prevention of sexual assault:
- Believe and Support Survivors: Listen to survivors without judgment, believe their experiences, and offer support and validation. Let them know that they are not alone, and that help is available.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Take the time to educate yourself about sexual assault, consent, and the impact of trauma. Share this knowledge with others to promote understanding and awareness in your community.
- Be an Active Bystander: Intervene safely if you witness behavior that could lead to sexual assault. Speak up, offer assistance, and help prevent harm whenever possible.
- Support Organizations Like Pillars Community Health: Consider donating your time, resources, or funds to organizations that provide services to survivors of sexual assault. Your support can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by trauma.
Accessing Services
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, please know that you are not alone. Pillars Community Health is here to help. Our services are confidential, free or low-cost, and available to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. To access our services, please call our 24/7 crisis hotline at 708-482-9600 or visit our website for more information.
This Sexual Assault Awareness Month, let’s come together as a community to support survivors, promote healing, and work towards a future free from sexual violence. Together, we can make a difference.
Remember, you are not alone, and help is always available.