January is Stalking Awareness and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. This can be a hard topic to discuss, and many are unaware of what to do in situations where they may be in danger or have been hurt. The Iowa Victim Service Call Center is here to help with that.

Founded in October 2015, the Iowa Victim Service Call Center works 24/7 to help victims and survivors, working with those who have experienced any criminal act against them. From robbery and identity theft to stalking and assault, they are a resource for those in need no matter what. They also assist friends and family members of victims as well. They are anonymous and take no money for calls, working as a calm and friendly ear to anyone who reaches out. As the Call Center says, “Don’t settle for abuse. You deserve a love that never hurts.”

They also provide resources further education, such as recognizing an unhealthy relationship; how to safely leave an abusive partner, especially if you have dependents; defining healthy relationships; how to help friends and loved ones that are in dangerous situations; legal support for survivors; and being safe online. They also have downloadable files you can use to record safety information if you need to report to the police, as well as ways to contact abuse services in your area.

When you call in, they will make sure that you are safe, and that you feel in control of your situation. The Center will make help find solutions with you and also cover self-care techniques, and will make sure that you leave the call feeling prepared. They help with recognizing different styles of abuse, cover different styles of human trafficking, and talk about what qualifies as sexual violence. They also make sure that people are aware that sexual violence towards males is real and should be dealt with instead of swept aside. The Call Center wants people to know that they aren’t alone, and that if they need help, it is only a phone call or text away. The Iowa Victim Service Call Center is always staffed, even on holidays, and at any time of day.

If you would like to donate to the Call Center, you can go to their website at survivorshelpline.org/donate.php. Businesses and organizations can also partner with them to help those in need find out about their services, such as by displaying their information, hosting events, or requesting that the Center gives a presentation at your location.

If you would like to find out more, you can go to their website at survivorshelpline.org, or their Facebook or Twitter @iahelpline. If you or someone you know are in need of the Iowa Victim Service Call Center, you can call 1-800-770-1650, or text ‘IowaHelp’ to 20121. If you are in need of abuse services, you can contact Catholic Charities in Council Bluffs at 888-612-0266, where they are able to help with sexual and domestic abuse or sheltering.