ONALASKA TEEN PROVIDES A SENSE OF DIGNITY FOR SEXUAL ABUSE SURVIVORS WITH NON-PROFIT

Jessica Randall is a junior from Onalaska High School. Jessica read an article prior to the pandemic that shocked her to her core, and she knew she needed to help.

With her school principal’s support, Jessica started a clothing drive that led to creating the non-profit called ‘Survivor Clothing Project.’ Jessica explains that when someone is seen in the emergency room for an assault, their clothes are often taken into evidence. Most people don’t know that these survivors are sent home from the hospital in paper scrubs and disposable underwear. Jessica couldn’t believe it when she looked into the local practices at both of our hospitals, and found out the same was true for our local community members. Jessica says, “no one should experience that discomfort, especially after a trauma.”

• 

• 

• 

• 

She’s quite a remarkable young woman. Listen to how she started the project and what she’s been able to accomplish, with the community’s help!

They have plenty of clothing donations, but this will be a continuous effort to raise funds for the cause. Eventually, as Jessica explained, the clothing will sadly need to be replenished at both hospitals and the funds will support that. The money will also go towards hospital funds for sexual abuse survivors to help them with whatever help they require, following their trauma.

If you’d like to make a monetary donation, you can drop off cash, or a check made out to “Survivor Clothing Project,” to Onalaska High School. 700 Hilltopper Place, Onalaska, WI 54650. If you have questions, email survivorclothingproject@gmail.com.

Jessica says one important thing she’s learned is, “it’s not that hard to create change.” She’s right. With the drive, effort, and desire to help people…you can do anything!