We are here for you.

If you have recently experienced sexual violence, you may feel overwhelmed, have questions about your options, or need some time to consider next steps.  These feelings are valid and normal, and we are here to listen and support you.  We will never judge you, no matter what happened.  

To help guide you, we have listed some options below.  Our Helpline Advocates are also available 24/7 to answer your questions, or to meet you to a hospital or police department.  Contact our free, confidential, 24-hour helpline at 1-800-871-7741 for assistance.

Time-Sensitive Options: The First 5 Days After an Assault  ​

If you go to the hospital, you can:
  • Receive medical care for any injuries.
  • Receive testing or preventative treatments if you are worried about pregnancy, HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.
  • Have a sexual assault forensic exam (known as a rape kit), to collect evidence of the assault.  ​Learn more about that here.
  • Ask for drug or alcohol testing within 96 hours after an assault.  This is called toxicology testing and is helpful if you are concerned that drugs or alcohol may have been used in the assault.​​
​Things to know before you go:
  • ​These options are time sensitive.  The sooner you seek medical care, the more options you will have available to you.
  • If you are able, try to avoid bathing, showering, using the restroom, changing your clothes, combing your hair, or cleaning up the area.  These activities can potentially damage evidence.  But don't worry!  If you have already done so, you can still have an exam performed. 
  • You will not be required to file a police report if you go to the hospital.  You can have evidence collected, but still choose not to report to police until you are ready.

​Options Five or More Days After an Assault

SARSSM will be here for you throughout your entire healing journey.  You can always call our helpline to receive support, information resources, or advocacy.  Additionally, we offer programs to support your healing, such a support groups, yoga classes, etc., and would encourage you to get involved when you feel ready.
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 [email protected].

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 Southern Maine, and generous public and private donations.