SAFE Center

18/12/2025

What We Hear Most Often…

“I didn’t know this existed.”
“I didn’t know I had options.”

We’re here to change that.

16/12/2025

If you have evidence collection done thru a sexual assault exam, specifically a DFSA or suspected drug facilitated sexual assault, this is where it goes to be tested ⬇️

The Toxicology Section within the Iowa DCI Crime Lab is responsible for testing urine and blood samples for the presence of alcohol and illicit substances.🧪 Samples are submitted by law enforcement agencies throughout Iowa, typically related to OWI investigations, sexual assaults, weapons offenses, and death investigations. Samples are tested for alcohol and/or drugs utilizing various instrumentation methods such as a LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatograph Tandem Mass Spectrometer) and LC-qTOF (Liquid Chromatograph Quadrupole Time-of-Flight). Try saying that 5 times fast!

14/12/2025

Sexual Assault Exam — FAQs

Q: Do I have to report to law enforcement to get an exam?
A: No. In Iowa, you can receive a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam without filing a police report. Your medical care is separate from any legal decision.

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Q: What is a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam?
A: It’s a medical exam completed by a specially trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) to address your health needs, document injuries, and—if you choose—collect evidence. It is patient-led and trauma-informed.

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Q: Is the exam painful?
A: The exam is done gently and at your pace. You can stop, pause, or decline any part at any time. Nothing happens without your consent.

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Q: How much does it cost?
A: There is no cost to you.
Sexual assault exams, medications, and related care are covered in Iowa through victim assistance programs.

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Q: Can I bring someone with me?
A: Yes. An advocate is part of the care provided alongside the SANE nurse. You may also have a support person if you choose.

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Q: Will I receive medications?
A: Yes, if you want. Medications to help prevent sexually transmitted infections and address other immediate medical needs are available at no cost.

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Q: What if I’m not sure I want to report right now?
A: That’s okay. Evidence can be collected and stored while you take time to decide. You do not have to make legal decisions during your exam.

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Q: Can I talk to law enforcement just to ask questions?
A: Yes. You may speak with law enforcement for information only without starting an investigation unless you consent, except in situations of mandatory reporting (which are explained case-by-case).

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Q: Is my visit confidential?
A: Yes. Your privacy matters, and your information is protected.

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💛 You are in control — always.
📣 Follow along as we continue sharing clear, supportive information about sexual assault exams and the services available to every Iowan as the SAFE Center prepares to open.

13/12/2025

“Where Do I Go If I Need Help?”

Right now, Polk County doesn’t have a single place online that clearly answers:
“Where do I go if I’ve been sexually assaulted?”
We’re changing that.
The SAFE Center will be a 24/7, walk-in access point for anyone who needs care, support, or someone to listen.

More details and official opening date coming soon. 💛

Currently in Polk county there is a SANE nurse on call 24/7 365 days a year. Present to any emergency room and a SANE nurse will be called in after a medial screening exam is completed by the ER provider.

Stay tuned for more info coming about services around the state available outside of Polk Co.

11/12/2025

We see people on the worst days of their lives. We often wonder if we make a difference….

Awhile back I did a TikTok video after a hard call.

41k views, 186 comments later… let’s see what the impact is…

09/12/2025

💛 You Don’t Need to Report to Police to Get Care💛

You can receive a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE) in Iowa without reporting to law enforcement.
Your medical care and your choices are completely separate from the criminal justice process. ✨

At the SAFE Center, YOU stay in control of what happens next. 🧡

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💬 Talking With Law Enforcement Is Optional

You can choose to speak with law enforcement just to ask questions.
This does not start an investigation unless you want it to. 🙅‍♀️🚓

Here’s what you can do:
• 📞 Talk with an officer for information only
• ❓ Ask what reporting would look like
• 🧭 Learn about your options
• ⏳ Decide later if you want to move forward
• 🤝 Have an advocate with you if you choose to speak with law enforcement — you never have to do this alone

🚨 Law enforcement can only begin an official investigation with your consent,
unless mandatory reporting laws apply (and we can help explain this case-by-case). 📝💛

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💛 Your safety. Your pace. Your decisions.

We’re here to support you — never to pressure you. 🤝✨

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📣 Follow along for clear, simple information about your rights and the choices available to all Iowans seeking care after sexual assault. 💛🌼

08/12/2025

📣 Know Your Rights: Iowa Victim Rights & Reporting Timeframes

At the SAFE Center (Sexual Assault Forensic Exam Center), our priority is to provide survivors with clear information, compassionate care, and direct access to the resources they need—without pressure, cost, or any requirement that they report to law enforcement.

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💜 What Most People Don’t Know About Sexual Assault Exams in Iowa

• Survivors have up to 120 hours (5 days) after an assault to receive a medical forensic exam to collect evidence. Up to 30 days for an initial forensic medical exam even if beyond timeframe to collect evidence.
• Exams can still be completed even if the survivor has showered, changed clothes, brushed their teeth, or slept.
• There is absolutely NO cost to the survivor for the exam, evidence collection, or preventative medications.
• A police report is NOT required for adults to receive a medical forensic exam.

• The purpose of the exam is to:
-Address immediate medical needs
-Treat injuries
-Provide mental health support and resources
-Collect evidence only if the survivor consents

Non-reported or anonymous exams allow survivors to preserve evidence while delaying a law-enforcement decision for up to 15 years, within Iowa’s statute of limitations.

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🔹Understanding Victim Rights
➡️https://www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/for-crime-victims/sexual-assault-examination-payment

➡️https://www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/media/cms/SAE_Consent_Form__FINAL_005_A8DE3212833DC.pdf

🔹 Iowa law provides a 15-year statute of limitations for reporting a sexual assault involving an adult survivor (18+).
(No statute of limitation for under 18)
➡️https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/802.pdf

⚠️ Please note: Reporting rules for survivors under age 18 are different and vary case by case.
There are also situations where mandatory reporting laws apply (for example, when minors or vulnerable adults are involved). Even in these situations, the survivor still controls whether they personally speak with law enforcement.

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🕊️ Why This Matters

Our mission at the SAFE Center is simple:
Provide immediate, compassionate trauma informed medical care by specially trained staff and preserve each survivor’s choices.

Your health comes first. Reporting is always your choice—except in situations defined by mandatory reporting laws, and even then, you control your personal participation.

We are here 24/7. You are not alone.

08/12/2025

Thank you for a phenomenal interview KCCI.

It’s an honor to have the support and work alongside Polk County officials to make this center happen for victims who need us. Their recognition from all levels within the county of the critical need for our services will have an overwhelming positive impact on our communities.

Polk County officials have been instrumental financially, policy making, and overall voices of support in helping “Lead the Way”.

The vision behind the first-ever SAFE Center in Iowa; plus, how Rep. Randy Feenstra is working to convince voters he's the right choice for governor.

06/12/2025

Being a survivor of sexual assault doesn’t end the day the assault is over—or even the day you receive an exam.
Healing isn’t linear. Sometimes survivors experience repeated trauma. Other times, the challenge is simply trying to move forward when your mind and body are still protecting you the only way they know how.

Much like grief, holidays, anniversaries, and “special” times of year can feel heavier, more overwhelming, or unexpectedly emotional. That doesn’t mean you’re going backward. It means you’re human, and your experiences matter.

If this season feels complicated, please know:

✨ You are not alone
✨ Your reactions are valid
✨ Your healing is not defined by anyone’s timeline but your own
✨ Support exists—24/7, judgment-free

Whether you need a quiet place to talk, information on medical care, forensic services, or simply someone to remind you that your story and safety matter, resources are here for you.

You deserve peace. You deserve support. You deserve healing—every single day of the year.

If you or someone you know needs help during the holidays, please reach out.
You are seen. You are believed. You are supported.

As we step into December, we know this month can bring a mix of hope, stress, reflection, and complicated emotions. For survivors, the holiday season can feel especially heavy. You deserve support that meets you where you are, without judgment or pressure to feel any certain way.
Whether you’re navigating memories, planning for safety, or simply needing someone to talk with, we’re here around the clock.
📞 1-800-770-1650
💬 Text IOWAHELP to 20121
🌐 survivorshelpline.org

06/12/2025

The importance of normalizing the conversation about Sexual Assault so getting care isn’t a decision people have to think about or research.

On Thursday, December 4, 2025, Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences hosted the Grand Rounds session titled "Understanding the Impact of the Gap in Sexual Assault Care."

The session was presented by Shannon Knudsen, BSN, RN, SANE-A, SANE-P, Executive Director and Founder of the SAFE Center of Iowa, Rees Barrett, Counselor/Advocate with the Polk County Crisis and Advocacy Services, and Kayla Scofield, a sexual assault survivor.

They shared their personal and professional perspectives, offering valuable insights on best practices for supporting survivors of sexual assault.

Pictured are the presenters: Rees Barrett (left), Shannon Knudsen (center), and Kayla Scofield (right)

05/12/2025

“What Is the SAFE Center?”

🌟 COMING SOON TO POLK COUNTY🌟

The SAFE Center is a dedicated 24/7 Sexual Assault Forensic Exam center staffed by specially trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs).

No ER waiting rooms. No delays. Just immediate, trauma-informed care in a private, calm environment.

💛 You deserve compassionate care — every hour, of every day, whenever you’re ready.

What we know- 100 per day in Iowa are seeking services for Sexual Assault care. Just imagine the number if we knew the ones that weren’t. It’s time for change 💫

Follow along for more info coming soon! Follow, invite, share our page and help us get the word out!

01/12/2025

We are so grateful to be blessed by such amazing humans in our community. The Blumenthal family has become part of our family.

They are currently sponsoring a $250,000 matching dollar campaign. You can be part of that match!

Please consider SAFE Center with your end of year donations. Every donation makes a direct impact to survivors needing services!

Don and Margaret Blumenthal of West Des Moines share why they support Iowa PBS.