April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This year’s theme, “Embrace Your Voice,” builds on the idea that our words can have an impact, and that what we say and do about sexual violence matters.

According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, “We all have a unique role to play in prevention and changing the culture. When we reflect on and change how we think and talk about the issue of sexual violence and consent, we can create a culture of respect, equality, and safety. All of our voices have power. It’s time for everyone to find that voice and embrace it.”

There are many ways we can do this, from speaking out when you notice something offensive like victim blaming to believing and supporting survivors. Remind those around you that sexual assault is never the victim’s fault. Sometimes the simplest words or smallest actions like this make a big difference.

Tri-County Safe Harbor, Inc. provides services to victims of intimate partner domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. The shelter is located in Delta County with outreach offices in the city of Menominee and in Carney in Menominee County. It also has an outreach office in Manistique in Schoolcraft County. It provides a 24-hour crisis line, emergency safe housing, counseling, personal protection order assistance, support groups, advocacy, community education, information and referrals. In 2016-2017, our organization helped 233 individuals in crisis, answered 716 crisis calls and provided 3022 bed nights.

You can help in numerous ways. Tri-County Safe Harbor, Inc. has a Facebook page where a monthly needs list is posted. The needs vary from month to month but we are always in need of monetary donations, paper products and cleaning supplies. You can also visit the website, safe3c.com, to find out more information about services, becoming a volunteer, and how you can help in our progress toward a new shelter. Tri-County Safe Harbor, Inc. is a non-profit organization funded by donations and grants so any help is greatly appreciated.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, domestic violence or stalking, please call an advocate on our 24-hour crisis line at (906) 789-1166 or 1-800-682-1649. Our office in Menominee can be reached at (906) 863-1116, in Manistique at (906) 286-4040 and in Carney at (906) 236-1685. You can also email us at info@safe3c.com for more information.