Sexual Assault Response Services of Southern Maine

Description

In 1973, Sexual Assault Response Services of Southern Maine (f/k/a Rape Crisis Center, Inc.) began as a grassroots effort to advocate for victims of sexual assault after recognizing that there were little, if any, resources available to women who had been sexually assaulted. These efforts resulted in a network of survivors who volunteered to be available to provide support, advocacy and referrals to others. After incorporating in 1976, SARSSM opened an office in 1978. In the following year, a 24-hour hotline was established for those affected by sexual assault. Today, the hotline functions with trained volunteer advocates. In addition to telephone support, SARSSM advocates are available to provide in-person support to victim/survivor(s) at the hospital, police station and through the court process. Staying true to its mission, SARSSM has grown to be able to offer community education through its school-based programs, training for social service providers, educational programs for law enforcement and health care providers, and programs for local businesses. SARSSM is also the sponsor of the annual Take Back the Night March and Rally. SARSSM works closely with other community members to ensure a compassionate and effective response to sexual assault by sitting on community tasks forces and advisory councils, project collaboration with other agencies and organizing Sexual Assault Response Teams.