Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (S.A.F.E.) Center
Donation protected
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), over half of women and one in three men will experience sexual assault in their lifetime (2021). Many of these patients will request services in the state of Iowa. In a recent year, nearly 30 victims per day sought services for sexual assault in Iowa.
Currently in the state of Iowa, there is no center that exists or offers all sexual assault services in one place for both victims and for professionals providing the services. We seek to establish a patient-driven sexual assault service center within Iowa. This stand-alone S.A.F.E. Center will enhance quality and consistency in the services provided to patients who have experienced a sexual assault.
This center will be the first of its kind in Iowa and will provide direct care to victims of sexual assault, with plans to expand and develop similar centers throughout the state of Iowa. The comprehensive care provided at the S.A.F.E. Center will include medical/forensic exams, follow-up care and mental health services. These services will be provided by highly trained, trauma informed professionals, including medical, advocacy, law enforcement, and other community resources.
Additionally, the S.A.F.E. Center will serve as a training and professional resource center.
GOALS OF THE S.A.F.E. CENTER
- 24/7 patient care services in one place by qualified and trained professionals specializing in sexual assault care and services.
- Enhance and continue to retain sexual assault patient services in already established areas.
- Promote and provide education opportunities by having access to facility needs on site.
- Create and provide a trauma informed atmosphere for all services in one location to meet the needs and choices of the patient.
- Address public health needs of sexual violence including spread of infection, mental health needs, and trauma recovery and healing.
- Decrease sexual violence in communities in the state of Iowa.
FUNDING
- This is a nonprofit organization that will be supported by continued community efforts, including fundraising and grants.
- The initial fundraising efforts will help secure a building and cover other start up costs.
For more information, please visit our website:
Fundraising team (2)
Olivia McAtee
Organizer
Clive, IA
Shannon Knudsen
Team member