UPDATE: The New Mexico Sexual Assault Helpline has just marked its first anniversary, responding to over 1,200 inquiries since its launch on October 21, 2024. This milestone highlights the helpline’s critical role in supporting survivors of sexual assault across the state.
The helpline, a free and confidential resource available 24/7 via phone, text, or online chat, has proven its effectiveness, according to Alexandria Taylor, executive director of the New Mexico Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs. “This helpline is working exactly as it was designed,” she stated, emphasizing its importance in providing support to those who may be reaching out for help for the first time.
In the past year, the helpline engaged in 1,141 phone calls, 90 online chats, and 50 text messages from individuals across 25 counties in New Mexico. Contacts varied from 30 seconds to a lengthy two hours and 50 minutes, showing the diverse needs of callers. Data from a recent survey revealed that 54% of New Mexicans have experienced sexual assault or rape in their lifetime, with a staggering 68% of those not receiving professional help.
As the helpline celebrated its anniversary, it released new data indicating that around 80% of callers sought someone to talk to, while 20% requested referrals to services like sexual assault nurse examinations or counseling. “This data underscores the necessity of connection, support, and time for survivors to navigate their feelings,” said Rachel Cox, deputy director of programs at the coalition.
The helpline operates with a dedicated team of seven responders and two co-directors, all of whom have undergone 120 hours of training. They come from diverse backgrounds, ensuring a wide range of perspectives and support for callers. The service is available in both English and Spanish, and interpretation in other languages is also offered.
Privacy is paramount for the helpline; it does not require callers to disclose personal data, and all conversations remain confidential. Taylor confirmed, “Our responders are real people—not bots—and no conversations are recorded.”
In conjunction with the anniversary, the coalition launched a public awareness campaign featuring local actor Amanda Machon. The campaign includes engaging public service announcement videos and coasters for restaurants and bars that promote the helpline’s availability. The coasters display the slogan, “Can I give you my number?” on one side, with the helpline’s contact information on the reverse.
To celebrate this milestone, the New Mexico Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs is hosting an event tonight from 6 to 8 p.m. at Tractor Brewing Wells Park in Albuquerque. The free event is open to the public, and attendees can RSVP online.
Looking ahead, Taylor is advocating for continued funding from the New Mexico Legislature, requesting $1 million in recurring funding to support the helpline’s ongoing operations. “We are not at a place yet where there will be no sexual violence in New Mexico,” Cox remarked. “But the helpline shifts the narrative from isolation to connection, allowing survivors to carry their experiences with less shame and guilt.”
The New Mexico Sexual Assault Helpline’s first anniversary underscores the urgent need for such services and the profound impact they have on the community. As awareness grows, more survivors can find the support they need, fostering a culture of healing and resilience in New Mexico.
