Jax State Awarded Grant to Expand Sexual Assault Support Services and Launch 24/7 Hotline

01/21/2026

Jacksonville State University has been awarded a $42,500 grant to expand access to sexual assault support services and establish a new 24/7 crisis hotline serving Calhoun, Cleburne, and Talladega counties. 

The funding, awarded through the Sexual Assault Services Program (SASP), is a subaward passed through the Alabama Coalition Against Rape and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women. The project, titled Beyond Barriers: Increasing Access to Sexual Assault Services in Unserved Communities, is led by Dr. Tina Deshotels, department head of Sociology and Political Science at Jax State, and coordinated by Donna English. 

The grant will support the implementation of a comprehensive, trauma-informed sexual assault services program that provides free and confidential support to survivors. Services include a 24/7 crisis hotline, medical and court advocacy, short-term counseling, safe and confidential transportation, language access, and assistance with Alabama Crime Victims Compensation. 

Survivors can access immediate, confidential support by calling (888) 996-1262. The Sexual Assault Crisis Hotline is now online and currently staffed 24 hours per day, seven days per week.  

“This grant is about making sure survivors in our communities, especially in rural and underserved areas, have somewhere to turn in their most critical moments,” Deshotels said. “By working alongside local partners, Jacksonville State University is helping ensure that people across Calhoun, Cleburne, and Talladega Counties can access compassionate, trauma-informed support close to home.” 

Over the past two years, Jax State has established the foundation for this initiative through funding from the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) and the community foundation. That work established survivor-centered policies, cross-sector partnerships, regional coordination, and advocate training modules that meet Alabama Coalition Against Rape standards. SASP funding allows the university to move from infrastructure development to full-service delivery, addressing what advocates have long described as a sexual assault services desert in the region. 

The program is being implemented in partnership with the JSU Foundation and in collaboration with community organizations, including 2nd Chance, Family Services of North Alabama, and local District Attorney’s Offices. Together, these partners will deliver a coordinated, survivor-centered response designed to be sustainable and accessible across both rural and urban communities. 

English, coordinator of the program, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative. “When we include everyone, we protect everyone,” English said. 

The initiative will strengthen mutual relationships and enhance a sense of belonging across the region. It will also expand inclusive support services that enhance student success and uphold a culture of accountability. 

Through this program, Jacksonville State University continues its commitment to regional impact and to ensuring that survivors—on campus and beyond—have access to timely, coordinated, and compassionate care when they need it most.