New Mexico Sexual Assault Helpline Marks Year with 1,200 Calls

UPDATE: The New Mexico Sexual Assault Helpline has officially marked its first anniversary, responding to over 1,200 inquiries since launching on October 21, 2024. This significant milestone underscores the helpline’s essential role for survivors, according to Alexandria Taylor, executive director of the New Mexico Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs.

The helpline serves as a free, confidential resource available 24/7 through phone, text, and online chat, addressing the urgent needs of sexual assault survivors across the state. Taylor noted that for many, reaching out to the helpline represents the first time they acknowledge their experiences. “We want to honor what it means for someone to reach out,” she said.

As the helpline celebrated its anniversary on Monday, October 27, it released data revealing that responders handled 1,141 phone calls, 90 online chats, and 50 text messages over the past year. These interactions spanned from 30 seconds to nearly three hours, engaging individuals from 25 counties throughout New Mexico.

The establishment of the helpline was driven by the urgent need highlighted by the coalition’s 2024 crime victimization survey, showing that 54% of New Mexicans have faced sexual assault or rape in their lifetime. Alarmingly, 68% of those individuals did not receive professional help. The data revealed that around 80% of callers sought someone to talk to, while 20% requested referrals for services like sexual assault nurse examinations or counseling.

“There’s an evident need for connection, support, and time to think about what survivors want and need,” said Rachel Cox, deputy director of programs at the coalition. The helpline’s team comprises seven trained responders and two co-directors, each with over 120 hours of training, coming from diverse backgrounds including nursing and grief support.

Accessibility is a priority for the coalition, as the helpline offers services in English and Spanish, with additional interpretation available. Taylor emphasized the importance of removing barriers, stating, “We want everyone to feel comfortable reaching out.”

Privacy is paramount, with the helpline not requiring personal data from callers, adhering to strict confidentiality standards. “No conversations are recorded, ensuring that those who reach out are met with genuine human interaction,” Cox stated.

To mark its anniversary, the coalition launched a public awareness campaign featuring local actor Amanda Machon, promoting the message that the helpline is a resource for everyone. The campaign includes eye-catching public service announcements and by-request coasters for restaurants and bars, printed with the helpline’s contact information.

The coalition will host a celebratory event from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday at Tractor Brewing Wells Park in Albuquerque, which is free and open to the public. Attendees can RSVP online to participate in this important gathering.

Looking ahead, the coalition aims to secure $1 million in recurring funding from the New Mexico Legislature to sustain the helpline’s operations. “We’re not at a place yet where there’s going to be no sexual violence in New Mexico,” Cox cautioned. “But the helpline offers a vital shift from isolation to connection for survivors.”

The New Mexico Sexual Assault Helpline’s first year exemplifies the urgent need for continued support and awareness in addressing sexual violence across the state. As more individuals find the courage to reach out, the coalition’s efforts remain crucial for fostering healing and empowerment among survivors.