Survivors need a safe place for the emotional work of recovery. Advocates start where the survivor is. The advocate plays a critical role in helping survivors navigate housing options and regain a sense of safety.
Until very recently, the anti-rape field has not considered shelter and housing to be sexual violence issues. When we think and write about the crisis of sexual violence and our response, we typically think about medical needs, legal issues, and emotional support. As a movement, we often overlook the shelter and housing needs of sexual violence survivors. We seldom ask survivors about housing concerns. But healing from sexual violence can only happen on a foundation of safety and safety starts with home.