As family and friend gatherings increase this season, remember that eight out of 10 sexual assaults are committed by someone known to the victim
Media Contact: Lucie Fornasiero, EAFocus Communications; lucie@eafocus.com; 248.925.6726; Denise Figurski, Turning Point, dfigurski@turningpointmacomb.org; 586.463.4430 Ext. 237
Mount Clemens, Mich.—December 3, 2024—The startling statistic that eight out of 10 sexual assaults are committed by someone known to the victim takes on even greater significance during the holiday season, when friends and family gather for what is supposed to be a joyous occasion. Turning Point, an agency that offers services to empower survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking, wants victims and survivors of sexual assault to know there are always resources available to them, even over the holidays.
Turning Point’s Forensic Nurse Examiner Program & First Response Advocacy provide comprehensive medical forensic examinations and emotional support to adults, teens, and children who have experienced sexual assault and remain available 24/7 through the holiday season. Advocates can speak with survivors confidentially and services are available immediately with a call to the 24-hour hotline at 586-463-6990. The hotline is also available for anyone to call with questions or concerns, including law enforcement and medical professionals.
“It’s difficult to associate holiday celebrations with friends and family as a time to be on high alert for potential sexual assault or domestic violence, but statistics support the need for increased awareness,” Sharman Davenport, Ph.D., CEO of Turning Point, said. “Services at Turning Point are always available to support survivors and our community.”
About Turning Point
Turning Point provides free, confidential, inclusive, and accessible services to honor the unique needs, identities, and experiences of individuals who identify as a survivor of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking for 44 years. Services include a 24-hour hotline, emergency shelter, housing, counseling, legal advocacy, personal protection order support, forensic nurse and first response advocacy, prevention, and community education. In addition to these programs, Turning Point operates Second Hand Rose, a resale store that offers gently used merchandise to the community to support survivors and the agency’s mission. On average, Turning Point provides services to over 27,000 survivors and community members annually. Visit www.turningpointmacomb.org for more information.
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