A national helpline for Native survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault has begun work to launch an Alaska-specific service, according to information published by the Alaska Beacon. Strong Hearts Native Helpline is a Native-led nonprofit that offers 24-hour, seven-day-a-week, anonymous and confidential support for people who have experienced domestic violence or sexual assault. The helpline is currently staffed by American Indian advocates, but none are Alaska Native, said Rachel Carr-Shunk, the organization’s deputy executive officer.
Carr-Shunk told Alaska Beacon the organization expects to launch the Alaska-specific service within the next calendar year after building partnerships and resources in the state. Strong Hearts has hired Anchorage-based Minnie Sneddy of Hooper Bay to help identify regional needs and develop a database of Alaska resources. Sneddy said many survivors face limited local support and fear consequences for seeking help. Although there are not yet Alaska Native advocates staffing the helpline, Alaskans can still call the helpline, 1-844-762-8483, to speak with an American Indian advocate.
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