BOISE, Idaho — April is National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. To reaffirm Idaho's commitment to the awareness initiative, Gov. Brad Little signed a proclamation Tuesday recognizing the month-long acknowledgement on a state level.
In an effort to decrease the crime in the Gem State, several organizations are collaborating to raise awareness and provide resources to victims, including Idaho State Police.
Idaho State Police Colonel Kedrick Wills said the agency hopes the governor's proclamation reiterates the support offered by the state and allows them the courage to speak up.
"We hope that it helps the victims understand that it's okay to come forward. We know that a lot of people are coming forward as victims of this crime, but not near as many as we believe statistically, the crime is being committed," Wills said. "We believe that this is going to give them a voice and for help them understand they have a huge support system in law enforcement and outside of law enforcement to help them deal with this terrible circumstance that they've gone through."
Ada County said in a news release that sexual assault crimes impact thousands of Idahoans each year. So, throughout the month of April, a coalition of organizations are combining forces to educate the public about sexual assault and the resources available.
"We all share the responsibility of fostering communities where survivors of sexual assault feel supported and believed. It's imperative to cultivate an environment of healthy boundaries and conversations," said Trina Allen, Executive Director of the Ada County Victim Services Center. "There is no justification for sexual assault, and I'm privileged to contribute to the ongoing movement aimed at fostering safe environments throughout Idaho."
The Ada County Victim Services Center is located at 417 South 6th St. in Boise. The facility provides a wide range of services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, elder abuse, human trafficking and stalking.
Additionally, Faces of Hope provides support services to victims at the Meridian location Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A "blue light phone" is located outside the office, which connects victims with emergency services after operating hours.
Faces of Hope Meridian is located at 1850 S. Eagle Road, Suite 100. Victims may call (208) 986-4357 for assistance.
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