NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Since opening last fall, the Nashville's Sexual Assault Center has completed more than 100 rape kits. With more people coming forward, the demand can be hard to keep up with. But, the center explains that new funding may give them a hand.
This past weekend, six survivors came in to the Sexual Assault center to have rape kit exams performed. Since opening in September 2018, the center says their SAFE clinic completed 130 exams. It's a number well past their anticipated amount.
Sexual Assault Center President, Rachel Freeman, said she's glad more survivors are coming in to get the help they need. The more we talk about it, the less taboo it will be and the more comfortable people will feel coming forward. This spike in rape kit exams do have the center overwhelmed with keeping up with the demand.
"We expected the need to grow, we expected the increase demand but we need to make sure we can respond to it ," said Rachel Freeman.
Part of keeping up with the demand is hiring more staff and volunteers. Currently the SAC has about 50 staff members.
It also means staying on top of costs. Although rape exams are free for survivors, it costs the center about $2200 per person to do the rape kits and provide crisis support. That accounts for elements like staff time, counseling, and the operational costs of the center.
In Mayor David Briley's State of Metro address, he recommends $100,000 in the budget for the Sexual Assault Center. Freeman says this could make a huge difference in keeping up with the demand and giving survivors the care they need.
"We want to make sure we have staff, volunteers and advocates available 24/7 to support and advocate for every survivor who comes through these doors," said Freeman.
The Metro council would have to approve the mayor's budget.
If you or someone you know is a victim of Sexual Assault, you can contact the Crisis & Support line at 1-800-879-1999.
