How To Help Sexual Assault Victims

Since last week's uncovering of a 2005 hot mic tape of Donald Trump bragging about kissing and groping women without their consent, multiple other women have come forward with sexual-related assault allegations against the Republican presidential nominee. In the last 24 hours alone, the New York Times reported two new incidences of women being touched "inappropriately" by Trump. One of the women who spoke with the New York Times, Jessica Leeds, said that, while sitting next to him in a first-class cabin of a plane more than thirty years ago, he grabbed her breasts and tried to stick his hand up her skirt, saying "he was like an octopus."

Late Wednesday night, People writer Natasha Stoynoff recounted in an article how Trump forced her against a wall and kissed her when she went to his Mar-a-Lago resort in December 2005 for a profile on him and Melania:

Trump shut the door behind us. I turned around, and within seconds he was pushing me against the wall and forcing his tongue down my throat.

Trump has already dismissed the Stoynoff account, slamming it on Twitter Thursday morning, "Why didn't the writer of the twelve year old article in People Magazine mention the 'incident' in her story. Because it did not happen!" Of the New York Times account, he tweeted, "The phony story in the failing @nytimes is a TOTAL FABRICATION. Written by same people as last discredited story on women. WATCH!"

With many voters feeling horrified at the allegations and frustrated by Trump's dismissal, here are some ways to actually do something pro-active to help sexual assault victims.

1. Donate To RAINN

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the largest anti-sexual violence group in the country, according to its website. RAINN contributes to a number of comprehensive ways to combat sexual assault and help victims in their recovery. From offering support groups to offering intel on state and federal legislative measures, RAINN provides several venues for victims and people eager to help them.

2. Volunteer For A Sexual Assault Hotline

Victims are often in need of immediate services and guidance. By volunteering for a 24/7 hotline, you can help provide them with information and comfort directly. RAINN runs one of such hotlines, but there are others, often at state levels, like Connecticut's Sexual Assault Crisis Services' toll-free hotline.

3. Serve A Rape Crisis Center

There are so many rape crisis centers around the country in need of your time and energy. Here's a list of centers in the New York City area alone.

4. Listen To Friends & Loved Ones

This may be the simplest and most important. When people come to you saying they've experienced sexual assault, listen to them. Try to provide them with as much helpful information as possible and to go to legal authorities. Be there for them and providing a comforting ear.