The impact of sexual violence is severe and long-lasting. By changing how you respond in the moments right after a person tells you they’ve been raped or sexually assaulted, it’s possible to prevent a devastating cascade of harm and, instead, guide sexual assault victims on a path toward justice and healing.
As part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the Youth and Family Services Division’s Domestic & Sexual Violence Coordination Office (DSVCO) has teamed up with allies from other County Departments and agencies to promote Start by Believing, a global campaign from End Violence Against Women International (EVAWI) aimed at transforming the way we respond to sexual assault. You can take your own pledge on their website.
Multnomah County is participating in a social media campaign affirming that when someone tells us that they were raped or sexually assaulted, we “Start by Believing.”
Watch this short video featuring several DCHS and County staff and if you come across it on Facebook or Twitter, feel free to share!
Services in Multnomah County
The phone numbers and services below are the best place to start if you are concerned about domestic or sexual abuse. If you (or someone you know) have experienced domestic or sexual violence, you are not alone.
Dial Call to Safety at 503-235-5333 or toll-free at 1-888-235-5333 if you are not experiencing an emergency, but need to talk to someone immediately.
El Programa Hispano - Proyecto UNICA
Línea de Crisis 503-232-4448. Línea de Crisis 24 horas sin costo 1-888-232-4448. Los servicios que se ofrecen a las sobrevivientes de violencia doméstica y/o asalto sexual incluyen:Línea de crisis en español disponible 24 horas al día
Manejo de casos y abogacía
Grupos de Apoyo en español
Apoyo a los padres/madres
Educación a la comunidad
Asistencia en la petición de órdenes de restricción y de acecho
The Gateway Center
At the Gateway Center you can sit down one-on-one with an experienced advocate (“navigator”) who will help you develop your personal plan and connect you with other services you may need. Appointments are not necessary for first-time visitors. They encourage walk-in, drop-ins from Monday to Friday between 9 am and 4 pm. Learn more about The Gateway Center
