A supportive environment is essential for survivors of abuse

OP / ED

April is both Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Awareness month. The following article is the fifth article of a five-week series focusing on raising awareness about sexual assault and child abuse. Locally, HCWC served 667 community members that experienced sexual assault or abuse and 937 children that suffered abuse and their protective caregivers.

When someone in your life experiences sexual assault or child abuse they might not feel safe disclosing the abuse, even to someone close to them. There are so many factors involved in creating an environment that those that have experienced abuse feel safe to share their story.