JAMESTOWN, N.D., Nov. 20, 2024 — When a person experiences the trauma of sexual assault, every moment counts. Having access to specially trained nurses who can offer compassionate care and gather crucial evidence is an essential part of the healing journey. With the help of a recently awarded STOP (Services, Training, Officers, Prosecutors) Violence Against Women Formula Grant, the community’s Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program located at Jamestown Regional Medical Center is positioned to continue providing this vital support.

Since 2016, JRMC has supported survivors of sexual assault with care that goes beyond medical treatment, addressing both the physical and emotional needs of each patient. The SANE program is funded by the JRMC Foundation, which relies on community donations to ensure it can be there when patients need it most. The program is part of a broader community effort to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable, working in collaboration with Central Valley Health District, Safe Shelter, the Jamestown Police Department, the Stutsman County Sheriff’s Office and the Stutsman County State’s Attorney’s Office.

“Receiving this grant is more than just a financial boost,” said Tonya Perkins, JRMC Foundation Director. “It means we can continue to be a source of safety, comfort and hope for survivors. It allows our SANE nurses to be ready—day or night—with the expertise needed to provide trauma-informed care and gather evidence that could help bring justice.”

The STOP Formula Grant Program, authorized by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), is designed to strengthen community responses to violent crimes against women, including domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. For JRMC, this grant means enhanced coordination and critical funding for on-call nurses, allowing the SANE program to respond quickly when every second matters.

This grant comes at a time when JRMC’s commitment to serving victims is stronger than ever. The medical center has also received additional support from the North Dakota Trauma Foundation, helping fund a new advanced forensic exam kit that includes state-of-the-art camera and equipment to improve the quality of evidence collection and patient care.

“For many survivors, the SANE exam is a pivotal step toward healing,” said Michelle Locke, RN. “The additional grant dollars mean our nurses can continue to offer the highest level of care, using advanced tools that help ensure every patient receives a thorough, compassionate examination.”

Since its inception, the SANE program has provided a lifeline for survivors, offering not only skilled medical attention but also the reassurance that they are not alone. With the support of these grants, JRMC can continue to serve as a beacon of hope for those facing unimaginable circumstances.

To learn more about JRMC’s SANE program or how you can support these essential services, please contact the JRMC Foundation at (701) 952-4880 or visit jrmcnd.com.