COLUMBIA, S.C. — New Hope for Non-Profits Helping Survivors of Sexual Violence
In a much-anticipated development for non-profit organizations in South Carolina, the U.S. Department of Justice has announced a significant funding boost aimed at assisting those who support survivors of sexual violence. This comes on the heels of an alarming $700 million decline in federal aid to such organizations earlier this year, leaving many in dire straits to provide necessary services.
Among the groups eager to utilize this newfound funding is Pathways to Healing, a local organization committed to offering a range of services to those who have been affected by sexual assault and domestic violence. Rebecca Lorick, the executive director of Pathways to Healing, shared her thoughts on how this funding can help rebuild their capacities. “We actually had to cut 10 positions from our team, which severely impacts our ability to offer free services, but the funding through DHEC is going to help us continue to offer the services for free,” she explained.
Understanding the Impact of Funding
The recent allocation of $925,000 to the State Department of Public Health aims to support non-profits like Pathways to Healing. However, Lorick pointed out that this funding, while significant, only accounts for about 5% of their total budget. “Every little bit helps, though,” she noted. The money is crucial for maintaining essential services that can literally change lives, especially considering the challenges the organization has faced over the past few months.
It is important to understand what kinds of services Pathways to Healing provides. They offer a 24/7 hotline for survivors, hospital companionship, clinical counseling, and educational outreach — all available free of charge. Lorick, who is herself a survivor of sexual assault and domestic violence, spoke about the transformative nature of such services. “I know that without the services like we provide at Pathways, I just would not be where I am today,” she said poignantly.
Spreading Awareness in the Community
One of the key components of Pathways to Healing’s mission is their educational outreach. Lorick mentioned, “When we go out into the community and into schools to talk to children about healthy boundaries and healthy relationships, I would say 95% of the time, we have somebody come and disclose sexual abuse to us.” This statistic underscores the critical need for awareness and education on a topic that often lurks in the shadows.
The statistics paint a concerning picture as well; according to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), there were over 2,500 reported cases of sexual battery in 2021. Unfortunately, many more cases go unreported, indicating a pressing issue that society must tackle head-on. “It is a problem. It is more than people realize, and we need to spread awareness and let people know that this really is a public health issue,” Lorick stated emphatically.
A Ray of Hope
This recent funding is more than just a financial boost for Pathways to Healing — it represents hope for many survivors seeking help. While the challenges of providing these vital services persist, the commitment of organizations like Pathways to Healing, combined with renewed funding, paves the way for a brighter future. These resources will undoubtedly assist in their mission to support and empower survivors throughout Columbia and beyond.
As we move forward, it is crucial to support these non-profit organizations as they strive to make a difference in the lives of those affected by sexual violence. Every conversation, every outreach effort, and every dollar makes a significant impact. Together, we can create a community where survivors feel safe, supported, and empowered to seek the help they deserve.
