(Seguin) — Every 68 seconds, someone in the United States is sexually assaulted. And every 9 minutes, that victim is a child.
Here in Texas, the stats of those victims include 2 in 5 women and 1 in 5 men.
Guadalupe County this month is standing in solidarity with those in our community who work each day to support these victims and who work to combat sexual assault.
This month marks the observance of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. Leading the observance by signing a proclamation against sexual assault is the Guadalupe County Commissioners Court.
Among those working individually with victims is the newly named Thriving Hearts Crisis Center. Speaking before the court at a recent meeting was Reghan Thibodeaux who shared the impact that the shelter is having in the communities that it serves.
“It is a time to stand in solidarity with survivors and raise awareness. My name is Reghan and I’m the community engagement specialist at Thriving Hearts Crisis Center which was formerly known as Guadalupe Valley Family Violence Shelter. At Thriving Hearts, we are dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence across four counties. We understand the profound impact that these traumas can have on individuals and communities which is why we offer a comprehensive range of services all free of charge. Our services include a 24/7 crisis hotline, emergency shelter, counseling and support groups, safety planning, victims’ advocacy, accompaniment to court and medical appointments and law enforcement. We also offer parenting programs, legal advocacy, sexual assault advocacy, case management and information and referrals. These services are designed to provide survivors with support and resources that they need to heal and rebuild their lives,” said Thibodeaux.
Sexual violence is sexual activity when consent is not obtained or realy given.
Sexual violence impacts every community and affects people of all genders, sexual orientations, and ages.
In 2023 alone, Thriving Hearts rendered 1,410 services to 452 survivors of sexual violence and provided 124 hospital accompaniments for sexual assault and exams.
In continuing to raise awareness, Thibodeaux says the crisis center will be hosting its Denim Day on Wednesday, April 24.
“Denim Day is an opportunity for us to come together as a community to support survivors of sexual assault and spread awareness about the importance of consent and ending sexual violence. We invite all you to join us at the Cibolo Multi Event Complex. It’s from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
It’s open to all ages and we encourage everyone to wear jeans to show their support. During Denim Day, we will have a performance by Natalie Rose, guest speakers, a Denim Day walk, and some fun games. It is also a chance for us to come together to show our support for survivors and to demonstrate our commitment to ending sexual violence in our communities,” said Thibodeaux.
County officials also extend their appreciation to Guadalupe Regional Medical Center, the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office and all law enforcement and fire departments within the county for their daily efforts to assist victims of sexual assault.
Those wishing to purchase tickets for Denim Day are asked to visit the Thriving Hearts Crisis Center Facebook page.