March 28, 2024

Victim services are still available from Day One!

Posted

Providence, RI – March 24, 2020 - Programs and services across the country have changed in response to COVID-19, and we want to assure you that victim services are still available in Rhode Island. As the only organization with a primary focus on sexual assault, Day One is available and remains fully functional through these difficult times. Although we have limited face-to-face contact, our team is working hard to meet the needs of our clients through telemedicine and in person when necessary.

Victims are still encouraged to go to hospital emergency departments for examination, treatment and evidence collection if you have survived a sexual assault. Please do not be deterred from taking this important step as evidence can only be collected within 4 days following an assault.

Day One has maintained phone-based advocacy support throughout the crisis. Our advocates respond to calls through the Rhode Island Victims of Crime Helpline (1-800-494-8100) and in partnership with Women & Infants and Lifespan. Clinicians continue to offer online crisis services, including counseling appointments through telemedicine, which are covered by insurance plans as part of an executive order by Governor Gina Raimondo. Law Enforcement Advocates are still available through local police departments, and vital trainings are being offered to the professionals and the community in various formats.
Day One remains committed to our mission to reduce sexual abuse and support survivors with services and advocacy. We can help victims navigate the system during this COVID-19 crisis. Advocates and clinicians are prepared to respond appropriately for your circumstances, providing advocacy and counseling through telemedicine.

“As the state continues to practice social distancing and staying at home, we recognize this may cause an increase in tension and possible assault within homes. We know that prevalence of SA and DV does not decrease during this pandemic crisis if anything they would increase. We want all victims to know they are not alone, and we are here 24/7 to help,” says Executive Director, Peg Langhammer.

If you need help, Day One is here for you. If you or someone you know need services or have questions, you can contact Day One at 401-421-4100 visit www.dayonri.org, or call the 24/7 Victims of Crime helpline at 1-800-494-8100.

About Day One
Day One is the only agency in Rhode Island organized specifically to deal with issues of sexual assault as a community concern. Day One’s mission is to reduce the prevalence of sexual abuse and violence and to support and advocate for those affected by it. We provide treatment, intervention, education, advocacy, and prevention services to Rhode Islanders of all ages—from preschool children to elder adults. Additionally, we advocate for public policy initiatives and systemic changes that positively impact how Rhode Island families handle sexual abuse cases.

Our comprehensive services include:
• 24-hour Helpline and legal advocacy
• Children’s Advocacy Center
• Programs for victims of Human Trafficking
• Law Enforcement Advocacy program
• Individual and group counseling
• Professional training and consultation
• Prevention education workshops
From sexual assault on college campuses to the commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC), Day One is addressing the issues that are affecting Rhode Island communities and leading the effort to provide real solutions for both victims and those at risk.
For more information, visit www.dayoneri.org.

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