Rape Education and Crisis Hotline
REACH’s roots were planted in 1981 by a group of community members committed to raising awareness about sexual abuse of children and sexual assault of adults, and providing a helpline for individuals in need of an ear, support, advocacy and resources.
A part time coordinator was hired, who worked out of her car and, literally, and had a ‘corner of a desk’ at the Family Planning office.
During the ’80s, support groups were also offered in the community and in middle/high schools, and their Adolescent Awareness and Risk Reduction program in middle and high schools was developed.
Today, with 6 staff, REACH covers Oxford County, and the neighboring towns of Harrison and Bridgton, and maintains a 24/7 helpline staffed by Volunteer Advocates and staff.
We gave them £7,950 through our Americas Funding Panel towards funding for Adolescent Support Services.
