20 Apr Services Remain Available During COVID-19 Crisis

Services Remain Available to Survivors of Sexual Violence During COVID-19 Crisis

For Immediate Release: April 20, 2020

ALBANY — Sexual harassment, abuse, and assault do not end during a crisis. The New York State Coalition Against Sexual Assault and rape crisis programs serving all 62 counties in the State of New York continue to provide services to all children and adult survivors and their loved ones.

As a committed public partner, the health and safety of our programs’ clients, volunteers, and employees are paramount. NYSCASA and programs across the state are following public health officials’ directions in regards to COVID-19.

NYSCASA partners with a network of rape crisis programs who may be limiting in-person services, but all remain available to continue providing free and confidential services to support those that need it through telephone and technology platforms.

We encourage anyone in need of help to contact their local rape crisis program or use the New York State Hotline for Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence to be connected to them at 1-800-942-6906. These programs have expert staff available to the public 24 hours a day to help answer questions and coordinate any services that may be needed based on the individual’s choice. Some programs are able to provide video conferencing depending on technology access and client preference.

Rape crisis program staff are also coordinating with local hospitals to support any survivors that seek medical exams due to a recent sexual assault.

Contact: Chelsea Miller, Communications Director, cmiller@nyscasa.org