Sexual assault is a devastating reality that affects individuals of every age, gender, and background. It often happens behind closed doors, leaving survivors to face emotional, physical, and psychological trauma on their own. But healing doesn’t have to happen in isolation.

For more than 40 years, AMHC Sexual Assault Services (SAS) has been a steadfast source of support for survivors throughout Aroostook, Hancock, and Washington counties. Their services are always free and confidential, ensuring that cost or access to insurance never stands in the way of someone receiving the help they need.

Now, the community has an opportunity to stand together and make a lasting impact. On Wednesday, April 30, Sexual Assault Services (SAS) is hosting its first-ever telethon, titled “Listen, Support, Believe Survivors Telethon”, in partnership with WAGM-TV. The event will run from 6:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. and aims to raise critical funds to help deliver services to survivors and support ongoing prevention efforts.

Why This Telethon Matters

Each year, AMHC SAS supports approximately 300 survivors of sexual assault, including both adults and children. Additionally, more than 2,000 young people receive prevention education—lessons that can empower them to recognize unsafe situations, advocate for themselves and others, and understand healthy boundaries.

The services provided by AMHC SAS include:

• A 24/7 sexual assault helpline, just call 1-800-871-7741 for immediate, confidential support to survivors and their loved ones.
• Medical, court, and law enforcement accompaniment, ensuring no survivor has to navigate these difficult systems alone.
• Prevention education and outreach for schools, businesses, and health fairs to raise awareness and reduce the risk of future assaults.
• Access to Children’s Advocacy Centers in Aroostook and Downeast regions. These trauma-informed, multi-disciplinary centers conduct forensic interviews for children who have experienced sexual abuse—interviews that may be used in court to support the child’s case.

These essential services are largely funded through state and federal grants, but matching funds are requested through local donations. As Julia Millier, Program Director of Prevention and Sexual Assault Services at AMHC, explains, “Your contribution is greatly appreciated!”

Denim Day: Raising Awareness Through Action

The telethon coincides with International Denim Day, a global event that challenges victim-blaming and brings attention to sexual violence. The day originated in response to a court ruling in Italy where a rape conviction was overturned because the survivor wore tight jeans. Protesters wore denim in solidarity, declaring that clothing is never an invitation or justification for assault.

Participating in AMHC’s telethon on Denim Day is a meaningful way to show support for survivors and take action against sexual violence in our communities.

How You Can Help

📅 Tune in on April 30 to the Listen, Support, Believe Survivors Telethon on WAGM TV8.

📞 Call 207-760-1555 during the telethon to make a donation.

💻 Donate anytime online at HERE

📬 Mail a check to:

AMHC

Attn: AMHC Sexual Assault Services

180 Academy Street, Suite 3

Presque Isle, ME 04769

Every gift—no matter the size—makes a difference.

Learn More and Stay Connected

Follow AMHC Sexual Assault Services on Facebook and Instagram for updates and survivor resources. To learn more about their work or access support, visit amhcsas.org.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, help is available 24/7. Call the Sexual Assault Helpline at 1-800-871-7741. You are not alone.