ASSAULT SURVIVOR KITS®

Assault Survivor Kits (ASK) is one of nine philanthropic programs of Assistance League of Albu­querque. The ASK committee works directly with the Albuquerque Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) unit. Assistance League provides personal hygiene kits, clothing, and other items to individuals who are victims of rape and battery.

In New Mexico, one out of every 5 women and one out of every 25 men over 18 has been raped. Following sexual assault or domestic violence, a SANE exam is scheduled by the victim, local police, hospitals, family, friends, or advocates. Following the exam, the victim can take a shower and is given a new change of clothing if their clothing is held as evidence.

The ASK committee shops each month from a list provided by SANE. The list includes various foods, drinks, feminine products, tote bags, lap blankets, tissues, and clothing. Clothing may include underwear, sweats or leggings, T-shirts, and socks. Additionally, Assistance League provides personal hygiene kits which include soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, combs, and lotions. The hygiene kits, clothing, and other items offer direct assistance and support to the victims, comfort, and some measure of restored dignity.

 

Danielle Ho discusses the partnership that exists between the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) Unit and the Assistance League of Albuquerque.