U.S Rep. Tom Reed (R-NY) learned about the critical needs of organizations that care for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault on Wednesday during a visit to Safe Harbors of the Finger Lakes.
During his stop, Reed met with the leaders of Safe Harbors, which provides care and services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Yates, Ontario and Seneca counties in New York.
“We care about those who are recovering from sexual assault and domestic violence,” Reed said. “It’s only right that we stand with the victims in these situations. They have to know that we will not only listen to them when they come forward but that their accounts will be believed. They have to know there is justice for them and we will do everything we can to keep them safe.”
Safe Harbors provides no-cost counseling, support groups, and legal assistance to victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.
During his visit, Reed met with a survivor identified as Mattie, who was in an abusive marriage that spanned more than three decades.
“We applaud Mattie’s courage and her willingness to share her story with us,” Reed said. “Her story is one of hope. That even in spite of everything she has faced, it’s possible to find help and a path forward.”