JACKSONVILLE, Ala.- Jacksonville State University has received a federal grant to launch a new 24-hour crisis hotline to support sexual assault survivors across Calhoun, Cleburne, and Talladega counties.

Those counties have been described as “sexual assault service deserts” after local response services shut down in August 2023, leaving survivors without immediate help or advocacy.

Project Director Tina Deshotels says without dedicated support, survivors are often left to navigate hospitals, law enforcement, and legal systems alone.

“Without these resources then they are left to navigate complex systems without any help or support and what we do is different from what the police do and what the hospitals do even what counselors may do,” Deshotels said.

The program provides trauma-informed, free, and confidential services, including a 24/7 crisis hotline, counseling, advocacy, transportation, language assistance, and help applying for crime victim compensation.

JSU is partnering with the JSU Foundation and community organizations to make sure survivors get coordinated care.

Advocacy Program Coordinator Donna English says calls are answered immediately and routed to trained advocates.

“The victim can call that number, and they will get an answering service and that answering service will be forwarded directly to me… I will send that advocate out whoever is on call. If they are not available, I’m available 24/7,” English said.

The hotline is now active and staffed around the clock.

Anyone needing immediate, confidential support can call 888-986-1262.