First Lady Deal and Director Ballard Visit Sexual Assualt and Child Advocacy Centers in Clayton County

On behalf of April’s National Sexual Assault Awareness Month, First Lady Sandra Deal and Director Katie Jo Ballard visited the Southern Crescent Sexual Assault and Child Advocacy Center as well as the Rainbow House Child Advocacy Center in Clayton County. Sexual assault is one of the nation’s most underreported crimes, with an estimated 60% of incidents going unreported. Sexual Assault Awareness Month is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness and spread prevention education to put an end to this serious crime.

First Lady Deal and Director Ballard were given a tour of the Southern Crescent center which provides services to young and adult victims of sexual assault including a 24 hour crisis hotline, therapy, support groups, and community education. The visit provided the opportunity to see the warm, friendly, and safe environment Southern Crescent provides victims seeking treatment. The First Lady and Director Ballard concluded their visit by donating books and toys to the center’s library. 

First Lady Deal and Director Ballard then toured the Rainbow House Child Advocacy Center which provides temporary shelter and services for abused, neglected, and abandoned children. The tour of the Rainbow House emphasized the center’s desire to provide the children with experiences that reflect a positive domestic lifestyle. The children are able to learn how to cook with the kitchen staff and are encouraged to participate in afterschool activities. After the tour, the First Lady and Director Ballard also donated books and stuffed animals to the Rainbow House center.