Response To The Grand Jury Report On Child Sexual Abuse By Priests

Women’s Resources of Monroe County stands with the victims recognized in the grand jury report that was released on Tuesday August 14th 2018. We recognize that news coverage about sexual abuse, transcripts of victim testimony, and the resultant conversations amongst our friends, neighbors and family can often be traumatic and bring about feelings of helplessness, anger or despair for victims, parishes and the community.

This report and its scope may deeply impact victims and our community at large. We want all affected to know they are not alone – there are free and confidential resources for those victims identified within the report, for parishioners in need of assistance with processing the report, as well as the community in general who may need guidance in talking through the emotional toll. Women’s Resources trauma-trained staff are available to provide whatever supportive measures you and the community at large may need. Such support can include assistance with hosting dialogue and awareness education around these difficult realities, help in locating written resources for hope and healing, a 24-hour helpline for victims, survivors and their families, 1-on-1 counseling and support groups. All services are provided free of charge and are completely confidential, except in cases of mandated reporting of suspected child abuse.

The effects of child sexual abuse can last a lifetime. Victims may feel significant distress and display a wide range of psychological symptoms, both short- and long-term. Childhood sexual abuse has been correlated with higher levels of depression, guilt, shame, self-blame, eating disorders, somatic concerns, anxiety, disassociative patterns, repression, denial, sexual problems, and relationship problems. Also, delayed disclosures of sexual violence are normal, common and should be expected. Many people who have been sexually abused wait months, years or decades before discussing what was done to them with anyone, let alone making a formal report to authorities.

If you, or someone you know, is a victim or survivor of sexual abuse, sexual assault, rape, harassment, or other forms of violence – either as a child or an adult – it is important to know that you are not alone and it is not your fault. Women’s Resources is here for you, 24-hours a day 7 days a week: 570-421-4200.

If you would like to schedule a speaker to come to your organization, club, place of business or church, please contact the Prevention and Outreach Coordinator at 570-424-2093 ext. 130.

 

Women’s Resources of Monroe County has provided services to victims and their families for over 38 years. Those services include safe emergency shelter, 24-hour crisis hotline, counseling, prevention education, legal advocacy, and community outreach. Anyone who has been a victim or family member of a victim of domestic or sexual abuse can be eligible for these FREE and CONFIDENTIAL services.  The 24-hour crisis hotline can be reached at 570-421-4200. To learn more about Women’s Resources of Monroe County please visit www.wrmonroe.org.