Last weekend’s brutal assault on Madison’s east side is a tragic reminder that we have work to do as a community. The YWCA Madison and United Way of Dane County are standing with the young woman who was assaulted and with all those who have had to survive sexual assault: our friends, family members and neighbors who need our support.
In 2010, there were over 740 unduplicated sexual assault victims in Dane County. YW Transit, a YWCA Madison program funded through United Way, provides free nighttime rides in the Madison area specifically to prevent sexual assaults.
“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the woman attacked this weekend and to all women who are at risk for harassment, abuse and assault simply because of their gender,” said Rachel Krinsky, CEO of YWCA Madison. “YW Transit is available to women and children in our community who may feel vulnerable at night or are in domestic violence situations.”
YW Transit operates year-round from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. It provides door-to-door transportation service and is free. United Way of Dane County provides a $40,000 grant to fund this service each year. The YWCA provides over 10,000 sexual assault prevention rides per year.
“Our hearts are with the victim of this weekend’s terrible assault,” said Leslie Ann Howard, President and CEO of United Way of Dane County. “Every resident deserves to feel safe in our community and services like YW Transit demonstrate our commitment with our partners to prevent future incidents of violence.”
To schedule a free ride, residents can call 608-316-6888 anytime between 7 and 8 p.m. on the night you need a ride. YWCA Madison will organize rides on a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more by clicking here.
