April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Submitted by Lisa Skeens

Director Victim/Witness Assistance Program

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Victim advocates from Family Crisis Support Services, Inc. and Victim/Witness have taken the opportunity to come together alongside allied professionals in the county to bring awareness to both the issue itself and the services available to survivors. According to RAINN (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network), an American is sexually assaulted every 73 seconds. Younger people are at significantly higher risk of becoming victims. Despite popular belief, 1 out of every 10 rape victims identify as male. Sexual violence can have long-term effects on victims, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and an increased risk of addiction. If you or someone you know may have been a victim of sexual violence, advocates invite you to reach out for support at any time through FCSS’s 24-hour, confidential hotline at 1-800-572-2278.

April is also the 40 Anniversary of National Crime Victims’ Rights. Dickenson County Victim/Witness Assistance Program in the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney provides comprehensive services to ALL crime victims. Everyday people are affected by crime in America and in this county. We want victims to know they have rights under the Virginia’s Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act in the Code of Virginia. Victims lives are forever altered by crime, and it is time to raise awareness of rights and services to support and empower them to move forward in their life and be a survivor! To learn how you or someone you know can get the help they need call Lisa Skeens at 926-1678.