Today, Mary’s Place: Sexual Assault Center of the Coastal Empire Inc. hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for their new forensic medical unit. This long-awaited addition to Mary’s Place, formerly the Rape Crisis Center, located at 105 Wheeler Court in Savannah, is designed to provide a supportive and comforting environment for all survivors of sexual assault. Importantly, examination rooms, restrooms and counseling suites are all in one part of the building, ensuring privacy and discretion for survivors.  

“In recent months we have provided support services for survivors of sexual assault who are as young as two and as old as 68,” said Doris L. Williams, Executive Director of Mary’s Place Sexual Assault Center of the Coastal Empire, Inc. “This new unit supports the physical and emotional well-being of all survivors, regardless of race, sex, or gender identity.  Thanks to donations from supporters and grant funds, we have been able to furnish the new unit with appropriate furniture and soft toys are provided for children seeking comfort and reassurance.” 

This new medical unit allows survivors without severe, physical injuries needing emergency care to receive forensic medical exams without going to the hospital. Onsite exams provide a seamless, survivor-centered experience from the moment they seek help, reducing the burden during a traumatic time.

Based in Savannah and serving seven counties in the Coastal Empire – Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty, Long, and Tattnall – Mary’s Place is a nonprofit organization providing a wide range of services including a 24/7 crisis line, counseling services, Temporary Protection Orders (TPOs), prevention education, and more. Mary's Place is committed to supporting survivors of sexual assault in the Coastal Empire and to implementing vital prevention and educational programs across the region.  Mary’s Place is looking for donations to extend their services and information can be found at www.marysplacega.org.