TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) - More resources are now available in Leon County for victims of violence.
For more than 15 years, Refuge House has provided exams, counseling and advocacy for rape victims. Now, the addition of the SAFE (Sexual Assault Forensic Exam) Center gives them another route of help instead of a hospital.
"If that day ever comes for a survivor in our community, we want her or him to have as much of an understanding of what those next steps might look like," said Meg Baldwin, executive director of Refuge House.
The SAFE Center celebrated its grand opening earlier this week and has already been open for two months. The center has helped 21 people during that time.
Victims also have an opportunity to speak with law enforcement privately, rather than go to the police station to file a report. While victims can't stay overnight, the staff follows up with them when they leave.
"We haven't forgotten about them," said Crystal Kelley with the SAFE Center. "They're not alone. Refuge House is there to offer support and be on the journey to healing with them."
