GET HELP NOW

DASI Community Outreach Center

If you would like to make an appointment for services other than shelter, please call the DASI Community Outreach Center at 973-579-2386. Hours are generally 9am-5pm, Monday thru Friday, but appointment hours can be flexible and some evenings are available.

Domestic Violence

Whether you want to leave an abusive relationship or to explore ways to keep yourself safe while you give the relationship another chance, we are here to help. Domestic violence and abuse can leave you feeling alone, confused, embarrassed, depressed, insecure, and unsure where to go or what to do. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. There is help, and there is hope.

DASI can also help friends and family members of abused persons learn how to best help their loved ones. Sometimes what we think is helpful can be counter-productive, or even harmful. We can help you learn how to provide support in a safe and meaningful way.

Are you a survivor of past domestic abuse and having trouble in a new relationship? Sometimes we know what a healthy relationship is supposed to look like but need help in how to actually achieve that. DASI can provide information and education on building healthy relationships.

Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is a crime of violence, anger and hostility meant to degrade and humiliate the victim emotionally and sexually. It is not about sex or passion. It is an act of aggression, against one’s will. It is a humiliating, often terrifying and brutal crime. Sexual assault includes unwanted touching, rape, attempted rape, incest, child molestation, sexual harassment, sexual exploitation, and other forms of sexual violence.

Whether or not the sexual assault occurred recently or when you were a child, we can help you cope with the aftermath or the impact of the assault. Sexual assault and abuse leave behind physical, mental, and emotional scars that may be difficult to overcome.

Emotional injury is a part of sexual assault or rape. Just as your physical health needs attention, your emotional well-being also needs attention. Talking to a knowledgeable and sensitive counselor who knows the trauma of sexual assault and understands the challenges of recovery can help you deal with your feelings, make important decisions, and get your life back on track. DASI support services can help you through the crisis and onto a path of hope and healing. Remember, you are not alone!

Seek immediate medical attention.
(If you would like, a DASI Confidential Sexual Violence Advocate (CSVA) can be with you during medical and legal proceedings. Call 973-875-1211 for an advocate, or to activate the Sussex County Sexual Assault Response Team (SART).

It is important that you:

• Do not change your clothing
• Do not bathe, shower or douche
• Do not urinate, if possible
• Do not drink, eat or smoke
• Place additional evidence (such as clothing or bedding) in a paper bag

Physical Examination and Medical Treatment : A complete physical examination is very important. Victims of sexual assault may not be aware of external and internal injuries that may require treatment. Early medical attention is necessary to test for, and possible prevent, sexually transmitted diseases or infections. If left untreated, sexually transmitted infections/venereal diseases may result in serious health problems. Early medical attention is necessary to test for and receive treatment to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

Follow-up care is very important to ensure that injuries have healed properly and that sexually transmitted infections are treated appropriately. Tests for infections and pregnancy must be repeated.
Evidence Collection: A forensic kit is typically used within 5 days to collect evidence from the victim’s body (but the earlier the better). This evidence can be used in prosecuting the offender. The victim may have the forensic kit done anonymously and the evidence can be held for 90-days. There is no cost associated with the forensic evidence collection and initial preventative medical treatment.

All DASI services are free and confidential: (These should link to other sections where appropriate)

• Safe House — When home is not safe
• 24-hour Helpline for assistance, information, support, & referrals
• Supportive Counseling & Groups – You are not alone!
• Legal, Social Service & Housing Advocacy – Help in getting through the systems
• Supportive court accompaniment and preparation – Understand your options!
• Safety Planning – Things you might not think of
• Information & Referrals – Other community resources
• Transitional Living Program – Working toward independence!
• Food Pantry
• Clothing, personal care items
• Transportation (limited)