What is the Gulf Coast Sexual Assault Program?
The Gulf Coast Sexual Assault Program began provided services to adult and minor victims of sexual violence in Bay, Gulf, Jackson, Calhoun, Washington, and Holmes Counties in 2015. A 24 Hour Hotline serves to provide immediate telephone crisis intervention services to all primary and secondary victims of sexual violence.
By calling this hotline, the caller will be assisted in evaluating immediate needs, provided information about available resources, provided information about the effects of sexual violence, general information about medical and legal issues, offered advocacy services and provided options regarding next steps. Any request made to the Sexual Assault Program will prompt a response by one of our qualified Victim Advocates within an acceptable time frame. Advocates can provide multiple referrals and information, crisis counseling, court accompaniment, and provide support for the client in their time of need.
The program is also committed to provide a coordinated, trauma sensitive response to all victims of sexual violence. A part of this commitment includes community education and awareness. Our agency works diligently to development and maintain productive relationships with other programs and providers within the areas we serve to ensure maximum outcomes for all individuals in need.