In response to the recent sexual abuse allegations and failure of many to report such heinous crimes, the Penn State Office of Student Affairs is implementing a telephone abuse hotline aimed at protecting victims of sexual abuse. According to Penn State Live, the new Penn State Sexual Assault and Relationship Violence Hotline, will provide a valuable resource for individuals who have been subject to sexual abuse. The hotline was reportedly activated on Nov. 28th.

To reach the hotline, students at all Penn State campuses can call 800-550-7575 (TTY 866-714-7177)

Complete coverage and access to other valuable assistance resources can be found on Penn State Live.

The allegations of child abuse levied at Jerry Sandusky, which allegedly span several decades, and the university officials who are alleged to have looked the other way when warning flags emerged, has cast a dark cloud on the Penn State University.

The only betterment that can emerge from these episodes is a heightened sense of awareness concerning crimes of sexual abuse, particularly among children, who are societies most vulnerable members. Also vital, is an administrative transparency across all levels of the university and local community. The new abuse hotline represents an important first step in preventing further victims of sexual abuse, and provides help to those who need it.