Safe Berks staff plants pinwheels honoring victims of sexual assault

Mar. 31—In recognition of April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, staff at Safe Berks on Friday planted 250 pinwheels that symbolize local victims of sexual violence.

The event was held at the nonprofit domestic violence education and prevention organization's offices and safe house on Chestnut Street in Reading.

Each pinwheel is inscribed with the Safe Berks logo and inspiring messages, including "There is Hope" and "You are Not Alone." Signs with the message "Prevention Begins with Awareness" were also placed.

According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, 81% of women and 43% of men experience some form of sexual harassment and/or sexual assault in their lifetime, and 1 in 5 women experience rape or attempted rape in their lifetime.

"Sexual Assault Awareness Month is so important because it brings attention to the impact that sexual violence has on our community," said Ashley Moyer, Safe Berks director of education and outreach programs. "Taking the time to recognize and remember survivors of sexual assault not only brings awareness to communities, but it provides an opportunity to educate others on how to prevent sexual violence."

Pinwheels are often associated with hope and the innocence of childhood, officials said.

Sexual Assault Awareness Month observance activities take place throughout April.

For help

Safe Berks provides free and confidential services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Services are available in English and Spanish and can be translated into other languages as needed.

For help, call the Safe Berks 24-hour hotline at 844-789-SAFE (7233) or text the words SAFE BERKS to 20121.