About Our Helpline

SARSSM offers a free, confidential 24-hour sexual assault helpline for anyone affected by sexual violence in York and Cumberland Counties in Southern Maine.

Call Our Helpline at 
​​1-800-871-7741 

Common Reasons People Call Our Helpline:

  • They just want to talk about what happened, or have questions about whether or not a situation was consensual.
  • They have experienced an assault and are in need of resources and support.
  • They would like to request that we meet them at the hospital to support them through a forensic exam (rape kit), or at the police department while they file a police report.
  • They are interested in receiving ongoing advocacy services, or would like to sign up for one of hope and healing programs (support groups, yoga).
  • Someone they care about has experienced sexual violence and they are looking for ways to help.
  • They are a community partner supporting a survivor of sexual violence and would like to consult with an advocate.
  • ... and more!  Feel free to give us a call.

What to Expect When You Call Our Helpline

When you call our helpline, our answering service will answer your call and request your first name, county and phone number to help route your call to an on-call Advocate in your area.  The Advocate will return your call within 15 minutes at the phone number you provided.  Please ensure that your phone settings will allow you to receive a call from a blocked phone number.  If you are calling from a pay phone, you can ask that the answer service patch you through to us, and they will keep you on the line until an Advocate has joined the call.  If you need a language interpreter, simply state what language you speak, and the advocate will arrange for an interpreter to assist by phone. Please Note: For safety reasons, Advocate's are unable to leave you a voicemail if you miss their call, but you can always call the helpline number again to request another call back.

Once the advocate is on the line, they will introduce themselves and ask how they can help. You can let them know if you just want to talk, or ask questions. If you feel nervous or are unsure about what to say, that’s okay!  You can just let them know how you are feeling, and they will help guide you through the conversation. They are non-judgmental and will never blame you for what happened. Helpline Advocates are there to support, validate, and help you.

Want to Know More?
Sexual Assault Helpline:
For support, please call our free, private, 24-hour helpline at 1-800-871-7741.
In accordance with federal regulations, Sexual Assault Response Services of Southern Maine does not discriminate in the access to our provision of its services. If you have any concerns or complaints, please send an email to info@sarssm.org.

SARSSM provides free services in York and Cumberland Counties.
​Sexual Assault Response Services of Southern Maine is funded in part by Maine's Department of Health and Human Services, the United Way of York County, and generous public and private donations.