We offer help ...
We offer care ...
We offer healing.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of sexual assault or domestic violence, you are not alone. Approximately 37 rapes are thought to occur each day in the borough of Brooklyn. Domestic violence against women occurs more often than rapes, muggings and automobile accidents combined.
Who We Are
The Rape Crisis Intervention/Victims of Violence Program (RCIP/VOVP) at The Long Island College Hospital was originally created to assist rape survivors in dealing with the aftermath of trauma and beginning the process of healing. The program has expanded its services to include support for survivors of different kinds of crime, including survivors of domestic violence, relationship abuse, physical assault, and bias crimes. Since 1985, the RCIP/VOVP has developed a reputation for providing comprehensive services to trauma survivors, and has been recognized by the New York State Department of Health as a Center of Excellence.
What We Do
Whatever the day or time, whenever a survivor of rape or domestic violence enters the emergency department at Long Island College Hospital, hospital staff contact a volunteer advocate from the RCIP/VOVP. The advocate stays with the survivor during the time that she/he is in the emergency department receiving medical care.
The RCIP/VOVP advocate offers emotional support and comfort, crisis counseling for the survivor and her/his family, and information about further medical issues and legal procedures. The advocate is trained to direct all activity toward assisting the survivor in regaining a sense of control. Transportation home or to a safe place can also be arranged by the advocate.
The RCIP/VOVP wants to ensure that a survivor receives the best possible care in cooperation with the emergency department team.
Once You Are Home
Additional advice and information is just a phone call away once the survivor re-enters the community. RCIP/VOVP staff can provide short-term individual and group counseling to teen and adult trauma survivors and their families. We also provide advocacy with the police, courts and other agencies.
In The Community
Staff members of the RCIP/VOVP are available to speak to community groups, schools and businesses about sexual assault and domestic violence and relationship abuse. Our speakers offer information, education, and attempt to dispel the societal myths that surround these crimes. Presentations can be structured to meet the needs of any interested group.
Please call us at (718) 780-1459, during business hours, if you would like further information on our services.