Gina Lopez, rural and indigenous communities specialist with Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault, has been in contact with StrongHearts for years.
She said there are high rates of domestic violence in rural and tribal communities, but detailed data is hard to find. Advocates in rural communities also face inconsistent funding, and rural residents might hesitate to seek support in small towns where anonymity is lower.
“A resource like StrongHearts offers that culturally focused approach and is removed from that community,” Lopez said. “It provides a level of trust and anonymity to support that survivor.”
Read the full story here: http://api.pinerivertimes.com/amp/142657-native-american-helpline-increases-sexual-violence-advocacy