Who is a Survivor?
Survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and mental illness are individuals who have experienced these traumas and have persevered through them. They demonstrate strength, resilience, and courage in navigating the challenges and effects of these experiences. Survivors often seek support from various sources, including mental health professionals, support groups, friends, and family, as they work towards healing and recovery. It's important to recognize and validate the experiences of survivors while also providing them with the necessary resources and support to rebuild their lives.
How can YOU get involved?
Hygiene kits
SAMA is collecting hygiene kits for survivors of sexual assault and individuals facing mental health challenges. You can make a difference by donating hygiene items to support those in need.
What we are collecting:
Tampons & Pads
Panty Liners
Body Soap
Hair Care (Shampoo & Conditioner)
Other self-care items (face masks, lotion, etc.)
Hygiene kits play a crucial role in supporting the mental health and well-being of individuals, especially those facing challenging circumstances. Here's how hygiene kits can positively impact mental health:
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Access to basic hygiene items promotes self-care, allowing individuals to maintain personal cleanliness. This contributes to a sense of dignity and self-worth, crucial for mental well-being.
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Good hygiene is linked to physical health, and maintaining physical health is integral to mental health. Feeling clean and healthy can positively influence mood and overall mental state.
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Establishing a routine, including daily hygiene practices, provides structure. Structure is known to be beneficial for mental health, offering a sense of stability and predictability.
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Hygiene kits can include items like deodorant and dental care products, contributing to improved personal grooming. Feeling clean and well-groomed can boost social confidence and positively impact social interactions.
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The absence of basic hygiene items can be a significant stressor. By providing these essentials, hygiene kits help alleviate stress related to personal care needs, allowing individuals to focus on other aspects of their lives.
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Item descriptionReceiving a hygiene kit can symbolize care and support from the community. This gesture can be empowering and contribute to a sense of belonging, which is crucial for mental health.
Resources
Hotlines
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RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) - National Sexual Assault Hotline
Phone: 1-800-656-HOPE (1-800-656-4673)
Confidential support from trained staff, connection to local sexual assault service providers, legal and medical information, and more.
National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)
Phone: 1-877-739-3895
Resources, educational materials, and connections to local sexual assault resources.
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National Domestic Violence Hotline
Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233)
TTY: 1-800-787-3224
Text: Text “START” to 88788
Crisis intervention, safety planning, information about domestic violence, and referrals to local services.
StrongHearts Native Helpline (For Indigenous survivors of DV and SA)
Phone: 1-844-7NATIVE (1-844-762-8483)
Culturally appropriate support for Native American and Alaska Native survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
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Love is Respect (For Teens and Young Adults)
Phone: 1-866-331-9474
Text: Text “LOVEIS” to 22522
Support for young people experiencing dating abuse and relationship violence.
The Trevor Project (For LGBTQ+ youth, including survivors of SA and DV)
Phone: 1-866-488-7386
Text: Text “START” to 678678
Crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth.
The Hotline en Español (National Domestic Violence Hotline in Spanish)
Phone: 1-800-799-7233 (press 2 for Spanish)
Confidential, Spanish-speaking support for domestic violence survivors.
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National Suicide Prevention Lifeline / 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Phone: 988 (You can call or text this number)
Provides free, confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.
Text: Text "HELLO" to 741741
Free, 24/7 crisis counseling via text with trained crisis counselors for anyone experiencing mental health struggles, including depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts.
SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)
Phone: 1-800-662-HELP (1-800-662-4357)
Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service for individuals and families facing mental health or substance use disorders.