VIBS

"In cases of drug-facilitated sexual assault, survivors often blame themselves. Rememberyou are not to blame. You are the only one allowed to make choices for your body. Using drugs or alcohol is never an excuse for assault and does not mean that it was your fault." -RAINN DFSA = Drug-Facilitated Sexual Assault and can happen in 2 ways: 1) when the perpetrator takes advantage of a someone’s voluntary use of drugs or alcohol and 2) when the perpetrator intentionally forces a victim to consume drugs or alcohol with or without their knowledge (RAINN). VIBS SANE's are educated on DFSA's and will assess when necessary. VIBS services also do NOT ever blame the survivor for being under the influence. We are here to help 24/7: 631-360-3606.

Research shows that the holidays are a lonely time for many older adults and this year, due to the pandemic, it is much more isolating than ever before for so many individuals. Normally, many older adults are visited or taken out of their assisted living facility/nursing home for the holidays but with COVID-19 restrictions and safety concerns, folks are left feeling neglected and depressed, with little to look forward to. But this doesn't have to be the case! Recognizing the pains of neglect of older adults, let's all work together to include our older loved ones this holiday season in the most creative (and safe) ways we can think of. Any suggestions? Comment below! You never know who you will be helping.

Many of us are excited for gifts this holiday season but did you know that not all gifts are good gifts? Yep, unwanted gift giving can actually be a red flag of Narcissistic Abuse and VIBS is here for you 24/7 at 631-360-3606. You do not deserve to receive gifts that make you feel uncomfortable or make you feel like your well-being is threatened, no matter what time of year it is.

Happy Sunday! Are you doing some holiday shopping today? Consider purchasing this 2020 Peace Bracelet (created by The Grand Stand Co.) for a loved one! The peace and labradorite combine together for strength and perseverance and the color scheme was specifically designed to complement the previous bracelet we sold in the late Summertime- the VIBS Empowerment Bracelet. Proceeds will support direct services including counseling, advocacy and legal assistance. Get yours today while supplies last): https://vibs.salsalabs.org/2020peacebraceletsale/index.html

ANNOUNCEMENT- VIBS has updated our Amazon wishlist for our clients! The wishlist includes fresh clothing for survivors of rape/sexual assault that go to one of our 4 partner hospitals containing our SANE/SAFE services. This fresh clothing is really important as one of the first steps for survivors to heal and we thank each and every one of you for considering a donation. Shop the VIBS Amazon Wishlist (for clothing and other needed items) here: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1BJB9RX5ZG8CR