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The
YWCA's Sexual Assault & Rape Crisis Program is based
on a philosophy of empowerment. We recognize that sexual
assault is never the survivor's "fault". Our
counselors strive to assist survivors to regain a sense
of control and power over their lives. The YWCA also
offers community education to encourage support for
survivors and to work toward ending sexual assault in
our community. All services are free, available 24-hours-a-day
and confidential.
For additional information,
call us or contact Vilma
Lora.
The YWCA Rape Crisis Center, along with
18 centers across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,
sustained a 75% cut to its state funding in July 2003.
We are currently operating with limited resources and
staffing. Your financial support and volunteerism is
particularly important at this time.
Sexual
Assault & Rape Crisis 24-Hour Hotline:
1-877-509-YWCA
Deaf
and Hard of Hearing:
978-686-8840
Office:
978-687-0331 x52
What
is sexual Assault or Rape?
Sexual assault is any sexual activity that is force
or coerced or in which someone is unable to give her
or his consent.
Sexual assault is a violent crime, whether
or not physical force is used. It is motivated by the
will to hold power over another person. Rape is a legal
term in Massachusetts, defined by three basic elements;
penetration of any orifice by any object; force or threat
of force; and penetration against the will of the victim.
Women, girls, men and boys of all ages and backgrounds
can be victims of sexual assault or rape.
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Confidential...
How
can the YWCA help?
The following services are free:
- a 24-hour confidential hotline offering
support for survivors of rape, sexual assault or incest
- YWCA stall will go with a survivor
to the doctor's office, emergency room, police or
courts.
- individual and group counseling for
survivors and their families or significant others
- referrals to professional therapists,
substance abuse treatment programs, lawyers, health
providers or other supportive professionals
- educational presentations that can
be specialized for different audiences.
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...Free...
Who
can receive help?
Victims, as well as their friends or families may need
support. Services are available for everyone.
The YWCA problem serves women, men, and
teens aged 13 or older who live in communities of Andover,
Boxford, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence,
Methuen, Merrimac, North Andover and North Reading.
If you don't meet this criteria and need
assistance, the YWCA can make a referral for other programs
that meet your needs.
YWCA hotline counselors can listen, learn
about your situation and provide information, support,
services or referrals.
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...Caring
How
do I know if I need help?
Every person is different. Sexual assault survivors
often report a wide range of feelings at different times.
Common responses to sexual assault may include:
- feelings of sadness, grief, anger,
shame, fear
- feelings of powerlessness, isolation
or anxiety
- changes in sexuality, intimacy, sleep
patterns, appetite, or use of alcohol or drugs
- thoughts of suicide
- spiritual or religious crisis
- flashbacks or nightmares
Feelings such as these may go away or
come back over the course of many years. Our counselors
are trained to help recent victims and those for whom
months or years have passed.
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