Sexual Assault Support Services

Since the 1970’s, the YWCA has provided response programs known as Sexual Assault Support Services (SASS), Sexual Assault Response and Advocacy Services (SARAH) and Empowering Alternatives program (EAp).

Our name reflects our goal of changing the beliefs that accompany sexual violence. We seek to create a society that does not minimize sexual crimes, that does not allow the shaming or silencing of the assaulted or hides the crime due to shame. A society where perpetrators are held accountable, mandated for treatment and prevented from offending again.

Partnerships are sought with organizations and agencies to further our goals.

Sexual Assault is an umbrella term that refers to any unwanted, forced, tricked or coerced sexual activity.
Sexual assault includes both contact and noncontact activity.
It occurs when one does not give consent to the sexual activity or when one is unable to.
Sexual contact without consent is a crime.

Consent Includes:

Cooperation in act and attitude

An exercise of free will

Knowledge of what is happening

Consent is Not:

Silence

Submission because of fear

Having had a previous sexual relationship

Be Aware

You have the right to say no

You have the right to stop sexual activity at any time

Intoxication impairs a person’s ability to give conse

Sexual Assault Support Services (SASS) seeks to improve lives by providing an array of services and referrals.

Services for victims, family, and
significant others to work through the trauma of sexual assault include:

Free, confidential counseling

Crisis intervention

Emotional and moral support

Support during a medical exam and the legal process

Assistance in deciding whether to file a police report

Therapeutic services

24-Hour crisis line

Community education awareness and prevention workshops

Prevention education for the whole community

Donations

If you’d like to help extend our reach, your tax deductible donation can be sent to:

YWCA - SASS 145 Ululani St Hilo, HI