The Solace Center
Throughout the month of April, The Solace Center is making special visits to locations throughout the Triangle area. Please join us to ask questions and learn more. The event calendar is located here.
Solace Center Informational Brochure (English)
Solace Center Informational Brochure (Spanish)
The Solace Center at InterAct
The Solace Center at InterAct is the only free-standing, community-based sexual assault forensic examination center in Wake County. It is one of InterAct’s core services, providing wrap-around care for victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Since 2011, the Solace Center has provided expert, compassionate care at no cost to the survivor.
Sexual violence is one of the most underreported crimes, affecting people of all genders, races, and backgrounds. It includes sexual assault, harassment, stalking, and exploitation.
Individuals cared for at the Solace Center have access to a comprehensive system of care that addresses not only forensic evidence collection, but also the emotional, legal, and advocacy needs of the survivor. Our forensic nurses and response advocates provide forensic exams and emotional support in a safe, calm, and supportive setting. Crisis counselors and case managers provide advocacy, education, and therapeutic support, and coordinate legal assistance and mental health and substance abuse counseling.
Survivors receive care from specially trained providers who deeply understand their journey and who offer a seamless continuum of services as needed. Such a holistic approach is essential for helping survivors heal and feel supported.
Who We Serve
- All people 16 and older who need our services
- Those 15 and younger are referred to WakeMed Children’s Emergency Department.
Our Services
- Specialized forensic nursing care and advocacy
- Forensic evidence collection within 5 days (120 hours) of an assault
- Crisis intervention services
- Connection with case manager for immediate and long-term support, such as support groups, safety planning, and community referrals
- Referrals for follow-up care and assistance with medication
Your Options After an Assault
- Evidence collection should occur as soon as possible, as some evidence degrades quickly. For this reason, a medical forensic examination is an option. If elected, a forensic exam must be conducted within 5 days (120 hours) of an assault.
- Forensic exams can be performed and evidence stored anonymously until the survivor decides they are ready to report to law enforcement.
- Support and advocacy services are available even if the survivor decides not to proceed with the forensic exam.
Long-Term Support for Survivors
- Support and referrals around medical and mental health care
- Assistance with reporting to law enforcement and support/advocacy through the investigation and potential court processes
- Obtaining protective orders and legal assistance
- Access to housing, food, and other essential services
To Schedule an Appointment
- Call the Solace Center at (919) 828-3067 to schedule an appointment
- Trained staff are available 24/7 to provide support and assistance
- Survivors referred from local emergency departments are welcome
- Services are available at no cost to survivors, regardless of where the assault occurred
What to Expect During a Visit
Upon arrival, survivors receive confidential support from a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) and a Sexual Assault Response Advocate (SARA). The process may include:
- Medical history review and assessment
- Evidence collection, including swabs for DNA samples, injury assessment, and collection of clothing
- Forensic photography (if applicable)
- Discharge planning, education, and follow-up support resources
- Support in reporting to law enforcement (if the survivor chooses)
- Access to a private bathroom, shower, and fresh clothing
Contact Us
- Solace Center Line: (919) 828-3067
- 24/7 Crisis Support: (919) 828-7740
- Website: www.interactofwake.org
- Address: 1012 Oberlin Rd, Raleigh, NC 27605
- Transportation assistance available—ask when making an appointment
Donations for the Solace Center
If you are interested in donating goods that directly benefit the Solace Center, please visit this Amazon Wish list.