The Sexual Assault Response Service (SARS) is a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week AVH program. Established in 1977, SARS serves a variety of vital needs:

• Provides quality, long-term specialized care for sexual assault survivors and their families at no cost
• Supports hospital ER staff
• Facilitates the prosecution process through improved collection/documentation of evidence
• Provides long term education and support
• Promotes improved community health and welfare through a coordinated effort involving many local agencies
• Although the program was initially developed to augment services at AVH, it is the only program of its kind in a 3,200-square-mile area and now serves many northern Los Angeles County communities.

SARS exists through the efforts of a small staff and a team of paraprofessional volunteers. Advocates man a 24-hour crisis line and respond to the ER, where they coordinate medical and legal exams, solicit histories, and assist with evidence collection and documentation needed for future prosecution. Working closely with LA County Sheriff's Department and the district attorney’s office, they also help survivors prepare for court, offer support and accompany them throughout the legal experience.

Volunteer advocates undergo more than 65 hours of classroom training and then participate in six months "on the job" training. They commit to a minimum of four 12-hour shifts of call plus two staff meetings per month.

SARS is taking new steps to help survivors with the current development of a Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) Center. Here, specially trained medical personnel, law enforcement officers, representatives from the DA's office, SARS volunteers and related professionals will provide a coordinated response to reports of sexual assault.

For more information about SARS, including how to become a SARS volunteer advocate, please call (661) 949-5566.

IF YOU NEED THE SARS 24-HOUR CRISIS LINE, CALL 723-RAPE (723-7273)