VICTIMS SERVICES & RAPE CRISIS CENTER

VICTIMS SERVICES & RAPE CRISIS CENTER About Program services are available to all victims of crime and their families. All services are free, confidential and available to any Alachua County resident. ImmediateOutreach 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. All groups are available to men, women, and non-binary survivors. Groups meet weekly for 8-10 weeks, with each weekly 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 The criminal justice system is dependent upon the cooperation of victims and survivors in order to prosecute a case successfully. Participating in the prosecution of a criminal case can be frustrating, frightening and confusing. 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 from the program 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 domestic violence or sexual assault victim has reason to believe he or she is in imminent danger of being victimized by the batterer or offender. 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 from the program 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, such as locating emergency financial assistance, intervening with employers, creditors and others on behalf of the victim. Information and Referral Advocates will assess and identify 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 have provided training, seminars and workshops locally and statewide. Advocates are available to provide educational presentations, speeches and consultation to community groups, agencies and/or organizations. Services Provided at the Gainesville Police Department The program provides services in the Gainesville Police Department to victims who report the crime to law enforcement. Mission Statement To support survivors on their journey to reclaiming their personal power in the aftermath of a crime.