For survivors of sexual assault in Maine’s most rural counties, compassionate,
trauma-informed care can be hours away. St. Joseph Healthcare’s Sexual Assault
and Forensic Examiner (SAFE) Nursing program has long been a lifeline, offering
expert forensic nursing, emotional support and coordinated advocacy. Now, thanks
to new and continued federal and non-federal grant funding, this vital work is
expanding even further.
The grants will help train and certify more sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs),
increase access to specialized exams and ensure survivors can receive expert support
close to home.
Through the Addressing Rural Violence SANEly initiative, St. Joe’s will serve as the
regional hub for Northern and Downeast Maine, partnering with rural critical access
hospitals in Penobscot, Washington and Piscataquis Counties — regions facing some
of the highest barriers to care.
Each aspect of the program promotes survivor safety, dignity and autonomy. From
confidential, welcoming exam spaces to culturally sensitive care, SAFE empowers each
person to make decisions that feel right for them.
By strengthening rural response teams and building a network of trained caregivers,
St. Joe’s is helping ensure that no survivor faces their journey alone. And with donor
support, this work reaches even more communities, bringing healing and hope where
it’s needed most.
Support survivor-centered care in rural Maine. Donate here.