About Us
Sexual violence can affect any individual regardless of age, demographic, or sexual orientation. While many survivors navigate the emotional burden of their experiences alone due to stigma and feelings of shame, research shows that participation in support groups can empower survivors and help them to better process their trauma. By listening to and validating the stories of friends, loved ones, and community members who have experienced sexual violence, we can work to provide spaces where all members of the Boston College community feel respected and valued. Read below to find a collection of resources for survivors offered by BC and the Greater Boston area.
SANet
SANEt is a 24/7 confidential hotline staffed by trained advocates at Boston College. SANet is available for anyone who has been affected by sexual violence and/or intimate partner violence in any way – either through personal experience or through the experience of a friend or loved one. The SANet hotline provides supportive and empathetic listening, trauma coping strategies, as well as referral to in-person services. To learn more about SANet and the resources they provide, check out their website here.
Additionally, the SANet CARE Team, which is staffed by a smaller team of trained advocates, is available meet virtually with folks affected by sexual violence via Zoom from 3-4pm every day. To schedule an appointment, email sanet@bc.edu.
Note from SANet’s website: SANet is available to all Boston College community members, and encourages the whole community to access this resource to support our students. In situations where students who are seeking support regarding sexual misconduct may also be responsible for Student Code of Conduct violations (e.g. possession of alcohol, COVID-related policies), the main focus of the University will be to respond to the report of sexual misconduct.
Contact Information:
24/7 Hotline: (617) 552-2211
SANet CARE Team: (617) 552-8099
HEAL
A confidential support group for Boston College students who are survivors of sexual violence. One March 19th from 1-3pm, HEAL is providing a psychoeducational workshop called Healing 101 for male identified survivors of sexual assault. This workshop aims to provide a space to connect with other survivors through an open discussion on trauma and healing. Click here to register for the event.
For more information about this group, please call (617) 552-3310 or email Dr. Johanna Malaga (malagj@bc.edu), senior staff psychologist at University Counseling Services.
Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC)
Offers free, confidential services for all survivors regardless of race/ethnicity, religions, income, language, or ability. BARCC also welcomes survivors of all genders and gender identities, including men, transgender, and nonbinary people. Services include 24/7 hotlines for phone counseling, medical and legal advocacy, as well as counseling and support groups. For a list of immediate steps for those who have experienced sexual assault within the last five days, check out this resource guide.
Contact Information:
99 Bishop Allen Drive, Cambridge, MA 02139-3428
24/7 Hotline: (800) 841-8371
Office Phone Number: (617) 492-8306 (open 9am-11pm)
Network/LaRed
Survivor led social justice organization dedicated to ending partner abuse in LGBTQIA+ communities. Services include crisis intervention, supportive counseling, advocacy and referrals. For friends and families of sexual assault survivors, Network/La Red provides a list of tips and common questions as they support their loved ones in processing their trauma that can be found here.
To learn more about available resources and services offered, check out their website here.
Contact Information:
989 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 02215
24/7 Hotline: (617) 742-4911
Office Phone Number: (617) 695-0877
Newton-Wellesley Hospital
Provides free and confidential sexual violence services for people of all races, cultures, ages, genders, and faith backgrounds. Newton-Wellesley takes a holistic, culturally sensitive approach to care that addresses each survivor’s specific needs.
For more information about the sexual violence services available, call (617) 243-6521 or visit their website
Additional Resources for Survivors of Sexual Violence
- Boston College’s You are not alone guide
- National Resources for Sexual Assault Survivors and their Loved Ones
- National Sexual Violence Resource Center
Likes: spicy chips, machine gun kelly, coffee oreo ice cream. Dislikes: spiders, people who type in all lowercase
