Sexual Violence is a Serious Public Health Problem.
Millions of people each year are impacted by sexual violence.
Your safety is our priority. If you are in immediate danger or need supportive intervention, please reach out to the resources below. You are not alone.
Immediate Help & Safety
Local Crisis Center
Immediate support for York County residents. Trained advocates are standing by.
(717) Local Hotline Line
National Sexual Assault Hotline
Available 24/7. Confidential support for survivors and their loved ones.
1-800-656-HOPE
Sexual Violence Starts EarlyÂ
Sexual violence often impacts individuals at a young age. Among women who report a history of completed rape, 40% experienced their first incident before turning 18, and more than 28% were first raped between the ages of 11 and 17 (Smith et al., 2017). For men, the pattern is similarly alarming: 71% of those who experienced forced penetration first encountered it before the age of 25, and 21.3% before turning 18 (Smith et al., 2017).
The Far-Reaching Impacts of Sexual Violence
Connection to
Other Harm
- Survivors are more likely to face other physical violence or relationship abuse later in life.
- Bullying in middle school is often a warning sign for later sexual harassment behaviors.
- Teens who experience forced sex are at a much higher risk for suicidal thoughts.
- Stopping one kind of violence often helps prevent others by addressing shared risks.
Health & Mental Health Impacts
- Victims may face physical injuries, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
- Many survivors deal with long-term health issues like chronic pain or stomach problems.
- Trauma is linked to risky behaviors like smoking or heavy drinking, which lead to heart disease.
- Childhood abuse can lead to higher risks for HIV, STDs, and unsafe sexual behaviors.
- Daily life, self-esteem, and personal relationships are often deeply disrupted.
Economic & Community Costs
- Survivors often need more frequent and expensive medical care visits.
- Costs include missed work, lost productivity, and long-term disability.
- One state estimated the total yearly cost of sexual violence at billions of dollars.
- Trauma can make it hard to keep a job, negatively affecting a family's finances for years.
Understanding Consent
Healthy interactions start with mutual respect. We teach youth about clear communication, setting personal boundaries, and honoring the choices of others through every interaction.
Building Healthy Futures
Healthy Relationships
Recognizing equality, honesty, and safety is vital. Our materials help youth identify the green flags of supportive partnerships and build connections based on trust and dignity.
Speaking Up
Empowerment comes through education. We provide youth and caregivers with the tools to use their voice for prevention, fostering a culture of safety and community support.
Get Involved & Advocacy
Support survivors and help us grow a safer community. Your involvement and advocacy make a direct impact on youth wellness and prevention.
Our Commitment to Your Dignity
DFYC operates with values of safety, respect, and trauma-informed care. We are dedicated to providing a space where every survivor is heard and valued, fostering an environment of trust and healing for our entire community.
Have questions about our programs? Reach out to us for gentle guidance.