- Helpline:
- 740-622-9533
- 647 Locust Street, Coshocton, Ohio 43812
Welcome to First Step Family Violence Intervention Services, Inc. , a United Way Agency. First Step helps families who are dealing with violence and offers many services to help out. Our Office is located at 647 Locust Street, Coshocton, Ohio 43812. We hope that you take advantage of the wealth of resources throughout our site.
Note on the above information taken from the NNEDV site: On September 4, 2024, 75 out of 75 (100%) identified domestic violence programs in Ohio participated in a national count of domestic violence services conducted by the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV). During the 24-hour survey period, participating programs served 2,701 victims, did not have enough resources to meet 347 requests for help, and shared the following additional information. Download Ohio Summary PDF from here.
First Step Family Violence Intervention Services, Inc., was established in September 1992 with a weekly support group for victims of Domestic Violence. In February 1993, the Muskingum Area Board of 
Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services funded the program through the Coshocton County Drug and Alcohol Council. To meet the emerging needs of the community, services expanded in September, 1994 through a much needed and requested weekly support group for children victimized by family violence between the ages of 6-12 years. In November 1994, a nine member board was selected as the Board of Control. First Step, F.V.I.S., Inc. was incorporated on April 1, 1995. The ultimate goal was accomplished on December 16, 1996 with the opening of the Coshocton County Shelter for Victims of Domestic Violence and/or Sexual Assault (Hope House). After opening the shelter, we were very thankful to the Friends of the Animal Shelter for making possible the availability of a small pet shelter for animals belonging to the families of those we serve.
Since 1995, First Step, F.V.I.S., Inc. has served victims; children, elderly, developmentally disabled, teens, and currently provides and will provide the following services to meet the needs of the residents in Coshocton County, Ohio and surrounding communities.
Sexual Assault occurs when a person is forced to take part in sexual acts against the will and consent of the person. The attacker may be a stranger, but is more often a date, a friend, authority figure, or family member. As many as 75-80% of all survivors of rape know their assailant. Sexual assault includes pinching, kissing, fondling, and molesting. It also includes incest, rape, or attempted rape.
Remember, no one deserves to be raped, and it is not your fault. You were not raped because of anything you did. Many victims are raped in their own home, and are raped regardless of their appearance and actions. You are not responsible for the behavior of a rapist.
You have a right to your own feelings and reactions to the rape. Different people react in different ways. You may respond at times by feeling very anxious and upset, or at other times feeling numb – as if what happened wasn’t real.
You have the right to share your feelings and talk about what happened to you with important people in your life, with an advocate, or a counselor.
You have the right to survive. During the rape you did what you felt was necessary to survive. Do not blame yourself afterwards. Seek support and services you need for your recovery.
Volunteers help the Sexual Assault Intervention and Prevention Program in many ways:
Donations may be made to First Step for assistance in the Sexual Assault Program.
Please call us at 740-622-8504 and we will schedule a professional to talk to you.
