Tom Reed visited Safe Harbors of the Finger Lakes, a center for domestic violence and sexual assault victims in the Yates, Ontario and Seneca counties. “We care about those who are recovering from sexual assault and domestic violence. It’s only right that we stand with the victims in these situations. They have to know that we will not only listen to them when they come forward but that their accounts will be believed. They have to know there is justice for them and we will do everything we can to keep them safe,” said Reed.

Reed went to the facility to meet with site administrators, including Marisa Rubé, Executive Director of the Site and Rachel Gregory the Assistant Director and head of Prevention programming and Anina Hamilton, Client Services Coordinator, head of Advocacy programming, as well as to tour the facility and learn about critical community needs.

Safe Harbors provides no costs services to victims of sexual assault and domestic abuse in Yates, Seneca and Ontario counties. They provide counseling, support groups and legal help for victims in the region. They also provide prevention and education services to the community to stop domestic violence and sexual abuse before it starts.

To conclude the visit, Reed was also given the opportunity to meet with a survivor who had benefited from the service offered at the site. Identified only as Mattie, she spoke with Reed about her abusive marriage. The marriage and the abuse lasted for nearly three decades.

“We applaud Mattie’s courage and her willingness to share her story with us. Her story is one of hope. That even in spite of everything she has faced, it’s possible to find help and a path forward,” said Reed.

If you or someone you know has experienced domestic violence or sexual assault, there is help. Visit safeharborsfl.org or if in Yates County, call 315-536-2897 or if in Seneca and Ontario Counties call 800-247-7273.