(Claremont, NH) –Today, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02), the founder and co-chair of the Bipartisan Task Force to End Sexual Violence, joined healthcare providers, survivors, law enforcement and others in Claremont to discuss efforts to prevent sexual violence. The discussion focused on local efforts, services, and challenges surrounding sexual violence in New Hampshire’s rural communities.

“Sexual violence is not only a moral issue to me; it’s a personal issue,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “This is a pervasive problem in our society, and I want to thank the incredible advocates who joined me today to share their ideas, experiences and perspectives. I will share what I heard today with my colleagues on the Task Force as we continue to discuss, hold hearings, and draft legislation on this issue to end sexual violence in our rural communities.”

“We are grateful for the Congresswoman’s leadership and support on this issue and hope what was shared in this listening session will prove helpful as she continues to serve as a champion for survivors in Washington,” said Deb Mozden, Executive Director of Turning Points Network. “There are unique challenges that we face working in a rural community, but thanks to the collaborative efforts of those represented at today’s panel, and many more throughout our greater community, we are often able to work together to provide survivors with the support and services they need.”

Kuster was joined at today’s discussion by Amanda Mace, Direct Services Coordinator at Turning Points Network; Dr. Cindy Gallagher, Superintendent of the SAU 43 School District; Liza Draper, Rural Outright & SHINE Program Coordinator at the TLC Family Resource Center; Denis O’Sullivan, Lieutenant & Investigator at Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office; Willow Moryan, Nurse Practioner at Planned Parenthood; Janet Carroll, Clinical Coordinator of Adolescent/Adult SANE Program and Emergency Department Staff Nurse at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center; Cathy Brittis, Program Manager at Child Advocacy Center of Grafton and Sullivan Counties; Erin E. Fitzgerald, Assistant Sullivan County Attorney at the Office of the Sullivan County Attorney; and a local survivor of sexual assault.  

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