Assault Survivor Assistance

Assault Survivor Assistance (ASA) is one of nine philanthropic programs of Assistance League® of Albuquerque (ALA). ASA works directly with the Albuquerque Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE).

SANE serves survivors of sexual and domestic violence by providing immediate and culturally sensitive medical treatment by compassionate nurses. Although victims of sexual assault and domestic violence are usually women, men and children may also be the subject of sexual assault or violence. The number of children involved in rape or sexual assault continues to rise.

Following sexual assault or domestic violence, a SANE exam is scheduled by the patient, local police, hospitals, family, friends, or advocates. Following the exam, the patient may take a shower and is given a change of new clothing provided by the ALA. Often the survivors arrive at SANE needing something to eat and drink; ALA provides snacks and drinks. A simple ginger chew may calm down the patient.

The ASA Committee shops each month from a list provided by SANE, which includes various snacks, soup, drinks, tote bags, and clothing. Clothing may include underwear, sweats or leggings, T-shirts, and socks. These items offer direct assistance, comfort, and support to the patients, and a measure of restored dignity. ALA also provides a “Buddy Bear” to hug and fleece blankets made by the ALA Tender Loving Care Committee.

Quotes from SANE:

A young woman who was sexually assaulted the previous night had not eaten or had anything since the assault and appreciated the warm soup we were able to offer her after we collected the evidence.

A sexual assault patient was able to drink sips of Gatorade during his exam. He was severely dehydrated after vomiting multiple times before coming to see us.

One of our pediatric patients had a Smucker’s sandwich in each hand during her interview and was able to take several home after her exam. She thought they were the best because there were no crusts. His mother appreciated all the snacks we offered.
Again, thank you for all you do!

How You Can Help:

Domestic abuse often leads to homelessness. It is a cycle that can be broken with the help of caring and supportive people. ALA appreciates all your donations to help us provide some comfort to people of all ages surviving abuse.
For more information on ASA activities, contact shopper@assistanceleagueabq.org.

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Thank you!

Danielle Ho discusses the partnership that exists between the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) Unit and the Assistance League of Albuquerque.