A new space in Jonesboro is offering something survivors of sexual assault often struggle to find in the aftermath of trauma: privacy, compassion and a sense of control. The SASS (Sexual Assault Support Services) Center, an expansion of the Family Crisis Center, has moved into its own dedicated facility, marking a significant step forward in how the community responds to and supports those in crisis.

First introduced in 2017 as part of the Family Crisis Center, the program was designed to expand services by establishing a rape crisis center capable of providing forensic exams on-site—one of only a few in Arkansas able to do so. From the beginning, leaders envisioned a standalone space tailored specifically to survivors of sexual assault. 

“The goal from the very beginning was for the center to be in its own stand-alone facility, which started coming to fruition a lot faster than expected around July 2025,” said Casey Kidd, executive director of Family Crisis Center. “We were very fortunate to have a location close to our administrative office become available, which is also owned and managed by the same family. By mid-October, staff had fully transitioned to the new location at 511 W. Monroe and continued services to victims/survivors of assault.”

While still operating under the Family Crisis Center, the SASS Center’s dedicated facility represents a preferred model for sexual assault services. By offering these services in a separate space, the center creates a more secure, welcoming environment during one of the most difficult moments in a survivor’s life, allowing individuals to seek help for services such as a forensic exam or for ongoing support.

The SASS Center follows a trauma-informed, client-centered approach rooted in empowerment. Survivors who reach out are first connected with advocates who help assess immediate needs and develop a plan moving forward. From there, individuals can access a wide range of services.

“Individuals who reach out to us seeking services are able to speak with advocates about what their immediate needs are, what services might be available to them, and they can develop a plan from there,” said Kidd. “The agency has worked with contract SANEs (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners) in order to perform forensic exams for victims/survivors seeking that service. We now have a full-time SANE/community educator on staff, but we will still continue to work with our contract SANEs to ensure that all exams which can be completed at our center will be.

“Individuals have the opportunity to receive victim/survivor advocacy, mental health therapy, support group, court advocacy, medical advocacy/accompaniment, advocacy and accompaniment for law enforcement or prosecution interviews, referrals to other victim service programs, and referrals to other community-based programs. Any service that an individual might receive through our agency is at no cost to them. At times, depending on funding available, we can look at helping with other services such as assistance toward housing, utility and transportation, to name a few. With our agency, the client is our priority. If we are not able to assist them with all needs, we will ensure they have the resources and information needed to so that they can have each need met.”

The impact of these services extends far beyond what can be captured in statistics, according to Kidd.

“While we can talk about the numbers of services provided and individuals served, I don’t think we can truly measure the impact made,” she said. “To me, it is hard to put into words what is done by this team.

“They are providing comfort during tragic events, client-centered care after victims have experienced trauma, and compassion that has quite possibly not been received until this moment. Overall, they are ensuring the victim knows that this is not their fault, they are believed, they are heard and they are seen. Furthermore, they are reminded they are never alone. I just am not sure the impact can be measured.”

Still, the numbers tell part of the story. Since moving into the new Monroe location in October 2025, the center has conducted 16 on-site forensic exams and served 55 individuals, providing a total of 577 services ranging from crisis intervention to legal advocacy. Since 2017, 191 forensic exams have been completed through the program.

That need shows no signs of slowing. In the past year alone, the demand for forensic exams and advocacy services has remained steady, both within the center and in area hospitals. For staff, this reality is both difficult and motivating. 

“We say often that we wish we didn’t have to be here, but that we are thankful that we can be,” said Kidd. “These are crucial services, and we see the need our community is facing—not just in Jonesboro or even our outreach area, but in Arkansas and every other state in the nation.”

Community support plays an important role in sustaining the center’s mission. Donations such as bottled water, snacks, non-perishable meals and hygiene products are always welcomed. Community members can also support the Family Crisis Center by attending its largest annual fundraiser, Cajun Fest, in October.

To learn more about the services offered by the Family Crisis Center and the SASS Center, visit neafamilycrisiscenter.org or call (870) 972-9575.