'Walk in Their Shoes' event raises awareness and funds for The Center for Sexual Assault Survivors
Apr 12, 2025
HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) -- Advocates and survivors of sexual assault gathered in Hampton's Peninsula Town Center for 'Walk in Their Shoes' on Saturday.
The event was organized by The Center for Sexual Assault Survivors and offers resources and communities to those seeking help following an assault.
"This year is actually our 19th year I'm doing this walk," said Stacey Moran, victim services program manager with The Center. "We're just trying to recognize survivors and victims of sexual violence."
Advocates like Stacey Moran and Xiomara Harris with The Center for Sexual Assault Survivors were there as people of all ages walked to support those impacted. They said events like this help those who may not know what step to take, if any, following an assault.
"It feels empowering. For me, it feels like we are a community that sticks together. We join together, we come together," Harris explained.
10 On Your Side's Kiahnna Patterson emceed the event supporting survivors. Resources from Sentara, Riverside Hospital and local commonwealth attorney's offices were there as well. Funds raised by the walk and raffle go towards keeping The Center's resources free for those who need it.
"Sexual assault is very prevalent and we want to get the word out," said The Center representative. "It happens to men, women and children, and we want them to know that we are here for them. All of our services are free."
Those free services can make it easier for survivors to come forward, offering a sense of community.
"I know it's hard to sometimes just come out and say that you've been a victim of a crime, you know, especially a crime like for sexual assault," said The Center representative.
If you're looking to give back, the non-profit is in constant need of support in the form of funding in order to keep their services free.
"These are hard times for nonprofits. We are federally funded. So we need the community's help to keep our services free," said Harris.
If you or you know someone who may be a victim of domestic violence or child abuse, click here for a list of local and national resources.
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