Compassion in Action: Community Safety Team Provides Vital Support for Sexual Assault Survivors

ALBUQUERQUE – During National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, the City of Albuquerque is reaffirming its commitment to survivors through the work of the Community-Oriented Response & Assistance (CORA) team, part of the Albuquerque Community Safety (ACS) Department.

CORA is dedicated to walking alongside survivors of sexual violence, providing trauma-informed, compassionate support through every step of the healing process. The team offers immediate crisis intervention, safety planning, and referrals to essential services—including medical, legal, and mental health care—ensuring survivors aren’t alone as they reclaim stability and rebuild their lives

“Survivors of sexual assault face immediate and overwhelming challenges. Our team is here to provide not only immediate assistance but also ongoing support as they work through their healing process,” said CORA Supervisor Erik Robinson. “We connect individuals to the resources they need, empowering them to regain control and stability.”

In a recent case, a woman in her 20’s visited the Gateway Center seeking support after reporting she was drugged and sexually assaulted. CORA responders acted quickly, transporting her to the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) unit at the Family Advocacy Center, where she received specialized care. The team stayed by her side, helped connect her to the Rape Crisis Center of Central New Mexico (RCC) for continued support, secured legal aid to obtain a restraining order, and helped her relocate to a safe place with family.

“No one should face trauma alone, and in Albuquerque, they don’t have to,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Our community safety team stands with every survivor, making sure they have access to safety, dignity, and hope.”

To request CORA services please call 911 for emergencies or 311 for non-emergencies and ask for Albuquerque Community Safety.

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Albuquerque Community Safety is the City of Albuquerque’s third branch of public safety. Responders take calls for service involving behavioral health, substance use, and other non-criminal and non-medical issues. Request an ACS Responder by calling 911 for emergencies and 311 for non-emergencies.