You’re not alone.
At Westchester Medical Center, the flagship of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth), our Sexual Assault, Abuse and Victims Empowerment (SAAVE) Program is here 24/7. We provide free confidential, trauma-informed care for survivors and their loved ones.
Our Commitment to Survivors
At the SAAVE Program, our promise is simple: to support and empower every survivor who turns to us. We provide advocacy that is always free, confidential, and centered on your needs.
We work closely with community partners to strengthen services and expand resources across the Hudson Valley. Education and outreach are central to our mission, helping prevent violence and reduce victimization. Above all, we are dedicated to enhancing healing and protecting survivors on their path to healing and from re-victimization.
Support for Children and Families
Children deserve care designed for their unique needs. SAAVE provides:
- Warm hand off referrals to the Child Advocacy Center
- Crisis intervention and advocacy services for parents, guardians and caregivers
- Accompaniment through the collection of forensic evidence after sexual assault and abuse
Families also receive guidance and resources to support recovery at home and in the community.
Trauma-Informed Care You Can Trust
At WMCHealth, your care is delivered by experts trained in forensic nursing and crisis response. Trauma-informed care means every interaction is respectful, confidential, and designed to reduce stress and re-victimization while supporting your healing. We use evidence-based practices, continuous training, and collaborative partnerships to provide the highest standard of support.
Education and Prevention
When you reach out for help, you deserve to know the people around you are prepared to respond with care. That’s why the SAAVE Program invests in prevention and training to improve victim safety, increase offender accountability, and build safer, more supportive communities.
Safety and Prevention
Our staff provides workshops for schools, youth groups, healthcare teams, and community agencies. These programs teach others how to recognize abuse, respond safely, and connect survivors like you to the right resources.
Best Practices for Sexual Assault Response
We also train medical providers, first responders, and law enforcement on how to respond in a trauma-informed manner, with respect and compassion. This includes the latest on trauma, bystander intervention, and victim-centered practices. If you ever need their help, you can expect informed, supportive care.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers are a vital part of SAAVE’s mission. After specialized training, volunteers may support survivors during hospital visits, answer crisis hotline calls, or assist with community outreach and education events. If you are interested in volunteering, our team will guide you through the application and training process.