HOUGHTON — Dial Help is probably best known for their 24/7 UP-wide crisis line, but here in the Copper Country they also provide a variety of other specialized services. One that often flies under the radar is their Victim Services Department, which serves Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw, and Ontonagon Counties. Whether it’s child or elder abuse, fraud, sexual abuse, or another crime, assistance is available.

“We want people to know that we’re here to offer support if they’re the victim of crime,” said Virginia Lambert, Victims of Crime Act Coordinator at Dial Help. “No matter what it was or how long ago it happened, if you’re struggling because of a crime we have options to help.”

These options include:

— Emergency response to hospitals and/or police departments

— Advocates who offer emotional support and resource referrals

— Information about the legal system and what to expect

— Having someone present at court appearances

— Counseling

— Sexual assault exams

— Child advocacy for youth victims of sexual or physical abuse

Members of the Victim Service Department can also offer trainings in the community to prevent sexual violence. To learn more about Dial Help and their victim services, visit www.DialHelp.org/vsu. Provided in partnership with the Michigan Sherriff’s Association, with assistance from the Ontonagon VSU for urgent sexual assault response. Funded by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Division of Victim Services. For domestic violence issues, please contact the Barbara Kettle Gundlach Shelter at 888-337-5623 or www.bkgshelterhome.org.