When Esther Craig started the Facebook page “County Line Safety Compass” after two domestic-related homicides last summer, she was surprised by the response.
“I had people calling me, sending me messages and even knocking on my door in the middle of the night saying they had a friend they were concerned about,” Craig said. “They were seeking information about what to do and how to help.”
Craig has spend a decade as a victims advocate for sexual assault survivors. She founded the first advocacy team to respond in an emergency alongside the FBI, local law enforcement and child welfare. It is part of a multi-disciplinary model of intervention for child sex-trafficking victims. Although she retired from her paid work to be a mom, working with local agencies she has seen a need for her expertise.
Craig and Kirstin Heydel of the Center of Hope and Safety in Salem will be partnering with SACA to present a child sex-trafficking awareness presentation Thursday, April 30, 6:30 p.m. at Silverton High School. This event is open to the public. Content may be graphic so parental discretion is advised.
April is Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Awareness Month.
In starting County Line Safety Compass, Craig discovered the depth of the need for assistance for victims of domestic and sexual crimes. Calling herself a navigator, Craig said County Line is becoming a project partner with SACA, with volunteers putting victims in touch with resources.
“This partnership is a testament to SACA’s willingness to open its arms and embrace creative ways to serve its community,” Craig said. The project will also serve Mount Angel residents with the “priority goal making sure that no one, no matter how rural, feels isolated from advocacy services.”
