Living through the experience of physical, sexual and emotional abuse or attack is more difficult than any non-survivor can really konw. That in itself is more than enough to handle for most folks. But, on top of the fear, the pain and the challenge of making it through another day, survivors (who report their experiences to the authorities) face police questioning, paperwork, more questioning, hearings, trials and so on. Some folks are unable to return to their home. Some need police protection or escort services. Add to this a combination of student and local residency, which requires University, State College and Centre County involvement. The survivor has to sort through and coordinate all this at a time when merely answering the phone can be a harrowing experience.

Both the University and the county have staff and resources allocated to assist survivors. The Victim/Witness Advocate (they have other responsibilities as well) is both a counselor and a coordinator, as well as a resource and a guide. Last I heard, Centre County was short on victim/witness advocates. When I saw the article in the Collegian last week about the University Advocate Program and Escort Service being considered for cuts, I felt panic. I don't know if I would have made it through this past year without the assistance provided by these services.

The Advocate Program is one of the most effective and well-run programs at Penn State and links folks to all the other needed support services on campus and in town. It is a vital resource for women. Consider this my plea. I am sure it is echoed by many. Money is always tight. Cutting is always hard. But don't cut this out. Or you're cutting us out. The University cannot afford to do that.