JACKSONVILLE, Ala.- Jacksonville State University has received a federal grant to launch a new 24-hour crisis hotline to support sexual assault survivors across Calhoun, Cleburne, and Talladega counties. Those counties have been described as “sexual assault service deserts” after local response services shut down in August 2023, leaving survivors without immediate help or advocacy. Project Director Tina Deshotels says without dedicated support, survivors are often left to navigate hospitals, law enforcement, and legal systems alone. The program provides trauma-informed, free, and confidential services, including a 24/7 crisis hotline, counseling, advocacy, transportation, language assistance, and help applying for crime victim compensation. JSU is partnering with the JSU Foundation and community organizations to make sure survivors get coordinated care.