VICTIMS SERVICES & RAPE CRISIS CENTER

VICTIMS SERVICES & RAPE CRISIS CENTER Program services are available to all victims of crime and their families. All services are free, confidential and available to any Alachua County resident. 24 HOUR SEXUAL ASSAULT HELPLINE Phone: 352-264-6760 Toll Free: 866-252-5439 SERVICES PROVIDED: Immediate Outreach to Victims of Sexual Assault Advocates are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to accompany victims of sexual assault to the hospital during the initial rape examination and evidence collection. Counselors respond to requests from law enforcement for assistance to victims of domestic violence, homicide survivors, robbery and other violent crimes. Counseling Services Free and confidential counseling related to the victimization provided to victims and family members. Counseling sessions are available in person, by phone, or via telehealth and can be scheduled by appointment. All walk-ins are welcome. Support Groups All groups are free and confidential. All groups are offered throughout the year and are available to men, women, and non-binary survivors. Groups meet weekly for 8-10 weeks, with each session approximately 90 minutes. Groups Offered: - Survivors of Sexual Violence - LGBTQ+ Survivors of Sexual Violence - Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Violence - Survivors of Loved Ones Lost to Homicide Group Modalities: - Counseling and Discussion - Equine Assisted Therapy - Yoga/Counseling and Discussion - Art and Mindfulness Accompany and Support Victims Through Criminal Justice Proceedings Advocate counselors are available to support and accompany victims to criminal justice appointments and proceedings related to the victimization. Transportation to Court Appearances and Other Appointments Victims receiving services receive transportation, if needed, to criminal justice proceedings, referral resources and other appointments related to the victimization. Assist with Application Process for Victims Compensation and Relocation An advocate will assist victims and survivors with completing an application to the Bureau of Victim Compensation for assistance with medical bills, lost wages, or funeral expenses incurred because of the death of a loved one by an act of violence. The center provides assistance with the application process for Relocation Funds, available through the Office of the Attorney General. Assistance with Protective Injunctions An injunction for protection against domestic violence and sexual violence is filed when a victim has reason to believe they are in imminent danger. Advocates will accompany the victim to the Clerk of the Court office to assist in obtaining a protective injunction. Emergency Assistance with Urgent Special Needs Victims receiving services will receive assistance with unmet special needs such as replacing broken locks, doors and windows. Personal Advocacy An advocate is available to assist victims in securing rights, remedies and services from other agencies, including locating emergency financial assistance and intervening with employers and creditors on behalf of the victim. Information and Referral Advocates will assess the victim's needs and refer them to appropriate community resources. Community Education, Speeches, and Consultation Program staff consists of skilled trainers and presenters who provide training, seminars and workshops locally and statewide. Advocates are available to provide educational presentations, speeches and consultation to community groups, agencies and organizations. Services Provided at the Gainesville Police Department The program provides services in the Gainesville Police Department to victims who report crimes to law enforcement. MISSION STATEMENT To support survivors on their journey to reclaiming their personal power in the aftermath of a crime. CONTACT INFORMATION Main Office at John Henry Thomas, M.D. Center 218 SE 24th Street Gainesville, FL 32641 Phone: 352-264-6760 Fax: 352-264-6774 TDD/TTY: 352-955-2449 Monday-Friday, 8:30AM-5PM, some services available 24/7 Toll-Free: 1-866-252-5439 Bradford County Outreach Office 925 N. Temple Ave, Ste C Starke, FL 32091 Hours vary, please call 24/7 helpline for more information Union County Outreach Office 410 W Main Street Lake Butler, FL 32054 Hours vary, please call 24/7 helpline for more information Director: Laura Kalt Email: [email protected] Accommodations: If any accommodations are needed for persons with disabilities, please contact the Equal Opportunity Office at (352) 374-5275 or (352) 374-5284 TDD.