We Are Here For You
If the assault took place recently, and you are in need of immediate assistance,
we can accompany you to the hospital for a medical exam, and support you
through the process of reporting the crime to the appropriate law enforcement
agency, if you choose to do so. We will explain your rights to you and discuss
your options with you, so that you may make informed decisions and choices.
We will support you in making your own decisions as to what, if any, action you
wish to take; we are here to provide you with information, understanding and
support. If you are an adult, we will not disclose information to a third party
without your consent or your specific request. Any information you share with
our certified sexual assault counselors will be held in the strictest confidence;
your privacy is protected by law.
24-HOUR HOT LINE: 888-999-5545
RAINN Online Hotline: Click Here
Immediate Concerns If You Have Been Assaulted
- Make sure you are in a safe location
- Do not shower, rinse your mouth, eat or drink before you go to the
emergency room. Although your first need may be to wash away any
contact with the assailant, you will actually be washing away valuable
physical evidence.
- Do not change the clothes you were wearing during the assault. Bring a
change of clothes with you, to the hospital, as the clothes you were
wearing will be kept as evidence. If you have already changed your
clothing, placed the soiled clothes in a paper (not plastic) bag, and take
them to the hospital with you.
- Seek medical attention. Even if you don't see visible injuries, a doctor can
examine you for injuries that may not be visibly apparent. The hospital
staff can also treat you for possible sexually transmitted diseases, test for
pregnancy, and administer medication to prevent pregnancy, if you
choose. The doctor or nurse may also perform a rape evidence collection
exam, in the event that you choose to report the assault to the police.
- If you are undecided as to what course of action you wish to take, you may
call the hot line anonymously to request more information, seek support, or
to just talk. We are here for you.