Resources for those that have been sexually abused at Faire:

🛡️ Crisis Support & Advocacy

  • RAINN (National Sexual Assault Hotline) 24/7 confidential support via phone or chat 📞 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) 💬 hotline.rainn.org Offers crisis counseling, referrals to local services, and anonymous reporting options.

  • Standing Together to End Sexual Assault (STESA) – Santa Barbara Local nonprofit offering walk-in crisis counseling and a 24-hour hotline 📞 (805) 564-3696 📍 433 E. Cañon Perdido Street, Santa Barbara 🕘 Walk-ins: Mon–Fri, 9 AM–5 PM.

  • Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) – Santa Barbara County Coordinates forensic exams, advocacy, and law enforcement support 📞 (805) 448-7993 📍 345 Camino del Remedio, Santa Barbara.

🏥 Medical & Forensic Services

  • Cottage Health Hospital Emergency Rooms (Santa Barbara & Goleta) Forensic exams (“rape kits”) available within 72–120 hours of assault Exams can be conducted with or without law enforcement involvement.

  • California Sexual Assault Forensic Examiners Association (CALSAFE) 💻 calsafe.net Find certified examiners and facilities across California.

⚖️ Legal & Victim Services

  • California Department of Justice – Victims’ Services Unit Trauma-informed support, evidence tracking, and legal rights under Marsy’s Law 💻 oag.ca.gov/sexualassaultresources Includes a portal to track sexual assault evidence kits and access legal aid.

  • ValorUS Directory of Rape Crisis Centers 💻 valor.us/get-help Find local centers offering legal, mental health, and housing support.

🌐 Culturally Specific & Community-Based Support

  • Casa de la Familia – Los Angeles & Orange Counties Counseling, advocacy, and crisis intervention for trauma survivors 📞 (877) 611-2272 💻 casadelafamilia.org.

  • SAHARA – South Asian Community Support Multilingual services, shelter, legal aid, and culturally sensitive care 📞 1-888-724-2722 💻 saharacares.org.

If the incident occurred at a Renaissance Faire, survivors may also consider contacting event organizers to report the incident and request support. Many large fairs have safety teams or designated response protocols, though these vary widely.

Samples of Letters you can send:

🏰 To Renaissance Faire Organizers or Safety Team

Subject: Request for Support and Accountability Following Incident at [Faire Name]

Dear [Organizer’s Name or Safety Team],

I’m writing to report a serious incident of sexual assault that occurred during [Faire Name] on [Date]. I am seeking clarity on your safety protocols, reporting procedures, and available support for survivors.

Please advise:

  • Whether you have a designated safety or response team

  • How survivors can report incidents confidentially

  • What steps you take to ensure accountability and prevent future harm

I would appreciate a prompt response and any resources you can share. Survivors deserve safety, dignity, and transparency.

Sincerely, [Your Name or Initials, optional]

🛡️ To a Local Advocacy or Crisis Center (e.g., STESA, RAINN affiliate)

Subject: Seeking Support Following Assault at Public Event

Dear [Organization Name],

I’m reaching out for support following a sexual assault that occurred at a public event in [City/County] on [Date]. I’m looking for trauma-informed guidance, advocacy, and possibly medical or legal referrals.

I’d appreciate help with:

  • Understanding my options for reporting or documentation

  • Accessing counseling or crisis support

  • Navigating forensic exams or evidence preservation

Thank you for the work you do. I’m grateful for any support you can offer.

Warmly, [Your Name or Initials, optional]

⚖️ To Legal Aid or Victim Services

Subject: Request for Legal Guidance After Assault at Public Event

Dear [Legal Aid Organization or Victim Services Unit],

I’m seeking legal guidance following a sexual assault that occurred at [Faire Name] in [City/County] on [Date]. I would like to understand my rights, reporting options, and any protections available under California law.

Specifically, I’m hoping to learn more about:

  • Marsy’s Law protections

  • Anonymous or third-party reporting

  • Support navigating law enforcement or civil options

Thank you for your time and support.

Sincerely, [Your Name or Initials, optional]