Gov. Whitmer announces new resource for sexual assault survivors

YPSILANTI — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced a new resource for sexual assault survivors last week that is designed to improve access to counseling resources.

Whitmer announced Tuesday that, in addition to calling the state’s 855-VOICES4 sexual assault hotline, survivors can now also text 1-866-238-1454.

“This texting feature is an important way to make sure every survivor in Michigan has direct access to the support and resources they deserve,” Whitmer said. “I want every survivor in our state to know that your voice and your story matter, and when you’re ready to talk, we’re ready to listen.”

She made the announcement at Eastern Michigan University during the fifth annual “Let’s End Campus Sexual Assault” summit, where she also gave the keynote address.

The texting feature expands the existing hotline, which offers 24/7, free, confidential and anonymous support to survivors, their family members and friends, according to the announcement. The hotline began in 2018.

“The hotline and new texting feature give sexual assault survivors more options when it comes to where, when and how they reach out for help,” Debi Cain said in the announcement. Cain is the executive director of the Division of Victim Service within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. “Now more than every before, survivors in Michigan have direct access to the support and resources they need for immediate help and long-term healing.”

For more information about sexual assault services in Michigan, visit michigan.gov/voices4.

—Richard Jenkins