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Crisis Center advocates for assault victims

Inside a nondescript house on North Oak Avenue in Owatonna, a phone rings and child advocate Stacy Burton answers.
That’s how it works at the Crisis Resource Center of Steele County, which provides services for those experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault. The office is open regular business hours, but a listening ear and support are available any time.
“Our crisis line is open 24 hours a day,” Burton said. “We currently have 10 volunteers, and we are in desperate need of more.”
The Center either provides a cell phone or volunteers can use their own to take calls, after they’ve received 40 hours of training. Requirements are simple: anyone 18 and older with a reliable vehicle can apply.
Burton has been with the Center for 16 years, after getting involved while she was in college. The work, she said, is “an immediate difference that you can make in someone’s life.”
During April, which is Child Abuse Prevention and Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Owatonna and Blooming Prairie libraries, Steele County Courthouse and Public Health will host a child abuse prevention display with information about how to identify abuse and what to do if you suspect a child is abused or neglected.
“We also do talks about teen dating and violence, sexual assault, healthy relationships, and bullying for youth groups, churches… anywhere there’s a need,” Burton said.
Last year, the Center’s Abused Children’s program served 298 children and 472 parents and caregivers. The Sexual Assault program supported 114 victims.
Services include:
helping victims define their needs
referrals to other resources and agencies
legal advocacy and help filling out restraining orders
separate women’s and children’s support groups
emergency transportation
Owatonna Mayor Tom Kunz last week signed a Child Abuse Prevention and Sexual Assault Awareness Month proclamation that will be presented during the first city council meeting in April.
“Child abuse is getting to be more common, and to have somebody that can help kids and parents… is very important,” he said. “Most important of all is to have a phone number you can call.”
To volunteer with the Crisis Resource Center of Steele County, or if you need help, call 507-451-1202 or 800-451-1202.

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