AUSTIN — Beginning June 9, sexual assault forensic exams in Austin will transition from SAFE Alliance’s Eloise House to a hospital-led, multiprovider model. SAFE Alliance decided to wind down its forensic exam program due to funding challenges, including reduced support from the city of Austin and the loss of federal grants.
For the past decade, SAFE Alliance’s Eloise House has provided sexual assault survivors with free forensic exams and support services in a private, survivor-centered setting as an alternative to hospital emergency rooms. Under the new model, SAFE Alliance will continue to provide advocacy services, but forensic exams will be handled by BRAVE Alliance.
“It was built around the needs of survivors. It’s a place that feels more accessible,” said SAFE Alliance CEO Pierre Berastain. “What we can’t do is continue to raise the bar at how much we have to fundraise year after year because government contracts continue to be flat-funded.”
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said in a city memo that staff have been preparing for the transition and training officers on the new model, including providing transportation to BRAVE Alliance’s clinic or partner hospital exam sites.