DELAWARE, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—HelpLine Sexual Assault Response Network (SARN) and Prevention Departments will observe Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) in April, focusing on the theme “Together We Act, United We Change.”
The campaign aims to raise awareness about sexual violence and empower communities to create safer environments, emphasizing the importance of amplifying survivor voices.
“Sexual violence, or any type unwanted sexual contact — including sexual abuse, assault, and harassment, impacts individuals of every background,” said Christina Jones, HelpLine Sexual Assault and Victim Services Director.
Dyesha Darby, HelpLine School-Based and Community Prevention Director, stressed the need for education on consent, communication, and bystander intervention.
Throughout April, SARN and Violence Prevention will participate in various community events, including:
- April 1: SAAM Day of Action, encouraging people to wear teal.
- April 5: Child Abuse Prevention Month Family Fun Day in Bucyrus.
- April 9: Wear Blue for Child Abuse Prevention Awareness.
- April 23: Denim Day at Ohio Wesleyan University.
Local cities and townships will also issue proclamations recognizing SAAM and the Day of No Silence.
HelpLine offers a range of services for sexual assault survivors, including trauma-informed SARN programs in Delaware, Morrow, Crawford, Wyandot, and Union counties. These services include healing workshops, crisis intervention, and advocacy.
The HelpLine Prevention Department provides suicide and violence prevention programming in schools, focusing on consent, safety, and connecting students with trusted adults.
For more information on SAAM events, Click HERE.
Survivors can contact SARN’s 24/7 hotline at 1.800.684.2324 or text helpline to 898211.