Custer County proclaims April Sexual Assault Awareness Month; Family Crisis Services reports surge in calls and shelter nights

Custer County commissioners on April 15 adopted a proclamation designating April 2026 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month and invited a representative of Family Crisis Services to describe the nonprofit’s local work.

The board unanimously approved the proclamation after it was read into the record by commissioners. "We are a nonprofit organization with four advocates and we have a director and a counselor," said Stephanie Moses of Family Crisis Services, who asked the public to remember local resources. Moses told the board the agency handled 1,211 crisis calls last year, served 347 new clients and provided 1,477 safe‑shelter nights. She also gave the agency’s 24‑hour crisis hotline: 719‑275‑2429.

The proclamation calls on the community to increase awareness about sexual violence, expand support for victims and strengthen local response options. Commissioners noted the county’s limited population but said the agency’s caseload represents a substantial level of need for the local area. "Those are really big numbers for the areas," a commissioner commented after Moses’s presentation.

Commissioners and staff discussed how to make contact information available to residents who may lack internet access; suggestions included posting materials at the library, Department of Human Services offices and community centers. The board agreed outreach should be coordinated with the agency and local partners.

The board’s action was procedural: it does not appropriate new funds. Moses said Family Crisis Services provides shelter, counseling and hotline support and encouraged residents seeking help to call the number she provided.

The board’s next procedural steps are to continue routine agenda items and coordinate outreach with the agency and local service providers.