C.A.R.E.- The Center for Abuse & Rape Emergencies, Inc.

C.A.R.E. is Charlotte County’s certified domestic violence and sexual assault agency, dedicated to providing safety, healing, and hope for survivors of violent crime. Every day, we meet people at some of the most difficult moments of their lives and offer compassionate, trauma‑informed support through crisis response, advocacy, counseling, and safe shelter. Our team, staff and trained volunteers, walks beside survivors as they navigate fear, uncertainty, and recovery, ensuring they are heard, believed, and never alone.

At the heart of C.A.R.E. is a commitment to building a safer, more informed community. Through prevention education, outreach, and partnerships with schools, churches, businesses, and local organizations, we work to break cycles of violence and empower individuals with knowledge, resources, and support. Whether answering a hotline call at 2 a.m., standing with a survivor in a hospital room, or teaching teens about healthy relationships, C.A.R.E. strives to create a community where safety, dignity, and respect are the norm and where every survivor has a path forward.

What C.A.R.E. Provides for Survivors C.A.R.E. supports individuals affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and other violent crimes through compassionate, trauma‑informed services.

24/Hour Crisis Hotline- A live advocate is available every day, around the clock, to offer immediate support, information, and guidance to anyone in crisis.

Hospital & Court Accompaniment- Trained advocates provide one‑on‑one support for survivors during hospital exams or court proceedings, ensuring they are not alone during difficult moments.

Safety Planning- Leaving a dangerous situation is complicated and risky. Advocates help survivors create personalized plans to stay safe, whether they are preparing to leave or need strategies to remain safe at home.

Counseling & Support Groups- Free individual and group counseling is available for anyone impacted by domestic violence or sexual assault. Services are offered by phone or in person.

Hospital Advocacy- Advocates respond 24/7 to local hospitals when a sexual assault survivor seeks medical care. They provide emotional support, explain procedures, answer questions, and connect survivors to ongoing services.

Legal Advocacy- Survivors may receive free civil legal assistance from Florida Bar‑licensed attorneys. Advocates also guide survivors through protective orders, custody concerns, housing issues, and accompany them to court.

Victim Advocacy- Staff and volunteers ensure survivors’ rights are upheld, their voices heard, and their needs supported throughout their healing journey.

Safe Shelter- C.A.R.E. operates a certified domestic violence shelter and rape crisis center, offering emergency housing for survivors and their children in a secure, confidential environment.

Community Education- C.A.R.E. provides prevention and awareness programs for schools, businesses, churches, nursing homes, and community groups.