CRCC Establishing Geauga County Presence
Posted 11/28/2011 2:07pm
Nearly ten percent of Cleveland Rape Crisis Center’s clients travel from outside Cuyahoga County to downtown Cleveland to access our healing services. They travel more than 50 miles because they cannot find comparable services any closer to home.
That is about to change for residents of Geauga County, thanks to a new partnership between CRCC and WomenSafe, a domestic violence shelter in Chardon.
Starting immediately, Cleveland Rape Crisis Center is establishing a presence in Chardon, the county seat for Geauga County. A licensed CRCC therapist has already begun accepting appointments from a new office inside The Green House at 12041 Ravenna Road. The Green House is operated by WomenSafe.
Women, men and children who have experienced sexual trauma at any point in their lives are eligible. Just like in Cuyahoga County, there is no cost for services or insurance required.
“We know that there are thousands of adults in Geauga County who have been raped and never sought healing services, “said Megan O’Bryan, CEO. “CRCC can be a safe, confidential place where survivors can come forward and get the help and compassionate support that they deserve.”
Shayna Jackson agrees.
“In rural, tight-knit communities where everyone knows your name, it can be even more difficult for survivors to find their voice,” said Jackson, executive director of WomenSafe. “Many survivors don’t want anyone to know what they have experienced, so they choose to never seek help. With a presence in Geauga County, CRCC can be an anonymous place for survivors to call and a confidential place to learn healthy coping skills.”
CRCC can also be a vocal advocate for those survivors who choose never to tell anyone.
“CRCC advocates understand the needs of sexual assault survivors. We have expertise that can help other professionals from a wide range of disciplines from the media to teachers to mental health counselors improve the way a community responds when survivors do come forward,” added O’Bryan. “We look forward to collaborating with existing providers to Geauga County to best serve those who have been impacted by sexual trauma.”
This expansion is possible because of funding provided by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office through the Victims of Crime Act.
For more information or to make an appointment, call 216-619-6194 x 141.
