Gulf Coast Sexual Assault Program

06/23/2026

When a survivor shares their experience, our first reaction matters more than we may realize. Comments that question, minimize, or place blame on the survivor can make it more difficult for them to seek support.

Instead, listening without judgment, offering support, and allowing them to share at their own pace can help create a safer space for healing and connection.

06/20/2026

Understanding the realities of trauma helps us better support survivors. Traumatic experiences can trigger automatic survival responses that are beyond a person's control.

By learning more about how the mind and body respond to trauma, we can challenge harmful misconceptions and create a more informed, compassion

06/19/2026

Healing rarely follows a straight path, and every survivor's journey is unique. Understanding your rights can be an important part of that journey.

Access to information, support, and resources can help survivors make informed decisions and find the services that best meet their needs.

06/18/2026

When someone chooses to disclose a sexual assault, the response they receive can have a lasting impact.

Responding with empathy, support, and a willingness to listen can make a meaningful difference. Creating a safe space where survivors feel heard and believed is an important step in helping them access the support they need.

06/12/2026

Awareness begins with understanding the facts. Sexual violence impacts hundreds of thousands of people each year, yet many misconceptions still exist about how common it is.

By educating ourselves and having honest conversations, we can help break the stigma, support survivors, and work toward prevention in our communities.

06/11/2026

The support from Panama City Parrot Head Club makes a huge impact in our community. 🧡

We are grateful to the Panama City Parrot Head Club for their generous support of our organization and other local children's charities.

Community partners like these help ensure that children and families in our region have access to the advocacy, healing, and support they deserve. Thank you for investing in the well-being of our community's children and for making a meaningful difference through your generosity.

You can read the full article here: https://bit.ly/3QeyamJ

06/10/2026

Continuing education and collaboration are essential to strengthening the support we provide to survivors. Staff from the Gulf Coast Sexual Assault Program recently attended the biannual summit hosted by the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence.

Events like these provide valuable opportunities to learn from experts, share knowledge, and stay informed on best practices that help us better serve our communities.

06/05/2026

Pensacola showed up with incredible support for Walk In My Shoes! 👟

It was inspiring to see community members, advocates, and families come together to raise awareness and stand alongside children and survivors. Every step taken helped continue important conversations around prevention, support, and healing throughout our communities.

Lauren's Kids

06/03/2026

A strong team makes a strong impact!

Our Sexual Assault team spent time together during their Q2 team building day. This created space for connection, encouragement, and collaboration. We are grateful for this incredible group and the work they continue to do for our community every day.

06/01/2026

Community education plays such an important role in helping people stay informed and safe. 💡

Our Sexual Assault Program partnered with the Life Enrichment Senior Center the Walton County Sheriff's Office, Florida for a safety presentation covering personal safety, online scams, phone scams, and romance scams. We are grateful for opportunities like these to connect with the community and share valuable resources and information.