New grant funding increases outreach and services to survivors with disabilities
Courtesy photo.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — RISE is proud to announce the launch of its latest campaign, raising awareness about RISE’s expanded services to survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence who have disabilities.
Funded by a $125,000 grant from the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal-OES), RISE has bolstered services for survivors with disabilities, including advocacy, case management, crisis support, and shelter. RISE will also begin offering an end-to-end encrypted website chat feature providing access to their state-certified crisis counselors for those who are not able to make a confidential phone call. This pilot program will begin with limited hours in late May 2021.
This month, the community can look for two billboards advertising accessible services: one on US Route 101 north of Monterey St and another at Higuera and Elks Ln. RISE has also added accessibility features to its website, making it both ADA & WCAG compliant, and has a resource page on its website for survivors with disabilities.
According to Justice Department data, people with intellectual disabilities are seven times more likely to be the victim of sexual assault when compared to people without disabilities. However, only three percent of sexual abuse cases involving people with developmental and cognitive disabilities are ever reported. Further, more than 80 percent of women with disabilities have been sexually assaulted. Research suggests that women with disabilities have a 40 percent greater chance of experiencing intimate partner violence than women without disabilities.
“We hope this campaign will help survivors with disabilities in our county feel more comfortable and safe seeking RISE services,” said Jane Pomeroy, RISE Executive Director. “RISE offers many programs that are available to individuals with disabilities who have experienced sexual assault and intimate partner violence, and we want to make sure they know they are welcome here.”
RISE advocates are available 24 hours a day on the RISE support line 855-886-RISE (7473) and are ready to respond by phone and in-person to survivors with disabilities and their loved ones. More information about RISE resources and services can be found at www.RISEslo.org
ABOUT RISE — RISE is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to transform the lives of sexual and intimate partner violence survivors, their families, and the community through services and education that promote safety, healing, and empowerment. RISE provides the following programs: 24-hour support line, case management, restraining order assistance, accompaniment and advocacy, two emergency shelters, individual and group counseling, and prevention education.