Hearts of Hope, formerly Stuller Place, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit agency that responds daily to those affected by the trauma of sexual violence in our community by providing education, advocacy and empowerment services and programs.
The Sexual Abuse Response Center (SARC), formerly known as Rape Crisis Center, began in 1981. The Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) opened its doors in 1995 as the result of a cooperative agreement between the 15th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, Louisiana Office of Community Services, Lafayette Police Department, Lafayette Parish Sheriff Department, Lafayette Parish School Board, and various medical & mental health agencies. The CAC formed a core team of the aforementioned professionals, known as the CAC Multi-disciplinary Team Review Board, who meet monthly to review and track cases from the 15th & 16th JDC.
On April 1, 1999, Stuller Place merged the SARC & CAC to strengthen its relationship with the District Attorney’s Office and enhance its partnerships with all Acadiana area law enforcement agencies.
In 2007, the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Program was developed to address the need for more specialized medical care to victims (age 12 & over) of sexual assault. In 2010, a Pediatric SANE program was added to address the needs of victims under the age of 12. Stuller Place’s SANE program and the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office then developed the Sexual Assault Response Team to review cases and collaboratively track progress.
On September 1, 2009, Stuller Place changed its name to Hearts of Hope. The new name better fits all of the objectives the agency addresses within the Acadiana area of Louisiana. Hearts of Hope’s administration, staff and volunteers provide the highest quality of care and service to all victims, survivors and clients. The Board of Directors is dedicated to this worthy cause of ending sexual abuse in the community. Hearts of Hope is truly appreciative of all the support given from Acadiana area businesses, state & local organizations, and individuals; it could not be possible without you.