The kickoff event was held last Friday at UPMC Lock Haven, where many came out to show their support of the partnership.
The SAFE-T Center operated under Penn State University, partners with underserved communities in Pennsylvania to supply high quality care for victims of sexual assault.
Over a year ago, a board member of the Clinton County Women’s Center (now known as Roads to Peace) approached Clinton County Commissioner Jeff Snyder and asked if there was any way UPMC could be encouraged to have a sexual assault nurse examiner at their location in Lock Haven, since victims would previously travel to Bellefonte or Lycoming County for examination. Snyder brought key community agencies together for a meeting, including UPMC President Ron Reynolds, UPMC Director of Quality Ashley Fedroff, UPMC RN Amy Quiggle, local law enforcement and advocates of the Women’s Center.
As of Feb. 1, the UPMC Lock Haven Emergency Department will be able to provide these services to the community.