Unalaskans Against Sexual Assault & Family Violence making a difference in the Aleutians

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – In a state with some of the highest rates in the nation of sexual assault and domestic violence, resources and community support are critical for the health and safety of survivors. This is especially true in rural Alaska, where organizations like Unalaskans Against Sexual Assault & Family Violence are making a big difference. GCI has contributed over $30,000 to USAFV over the past 20 years and, in 2024, is helping the organization provide food services for holiday celebrations and students who are out of school and not receiving free or reduced rate meals.

USAFV operates a shelter and 24-hour crisis line to address the needs of survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child or elder abuse, stalking, and others in crisis. The organization also provides crisis intervention, safe shelter, safety planning, personal support, systems advocacy, information, referrals, emergency food assistance, and other services, as well as education and outreach.

“Growing up in the Aleutians, I understand the challenges that come with living in a remote community and the challenges of not having access to needed resources when facing difficult situations,” said Senior Director of GCI Rural Affairs Jenifer Nelson. “I am grateful there is an organization meeting those challenges head on and providing services for all of those who seek them.”

USAFV operates a shelter in downtown Unalaska that offers beds for overnight stays, as well as a pantry that is well stocked to accommodate dietary restrictions. The shelter is meant to provide a safe space for survivors as they determine their next steps.

“We provide a number of different services throughout the year, but during the summer months providing food to students who are on break becomes critical,” said Karen Kresh, Chair of Unalaskans Against Sexual Assault & Violence. “Having a meal, day in and day out for those who need it, is really a game changer.”

USAFV services are available to all community members, including the transient labor force, and local and regional service providers, who are in need. The crisis help line is (907)-581-1500, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year with text available 8am to 11pm at (907)-305-1500.

For more information about GCI Gives, visit: https://www.gci.com/why-gci/gcigives.

About GCI Gives

GCI is one of Alaska’s leaders in corporate philanthropy, donating approximately $2 million each year in cash, products and connectivity to organizations across the state. GCI is committed to giving back to the communities it serves and provides employees with 16 hours of paid leave to volunteer with local organizations. In 2023, nearly 500 GCI employees volunteered more than 5,000 hours. For more information about GCI Gives, visit https://www.gci.com/why-gci/gcigives.

About GCI

Headquartered in Alaska, GCI provides data, mobile, video, voice and managed services to consumer, business, government, and carrier customers throughout Alaska, serving more than 200 communities. The company has invested more than $4 billion in its Alaska network and facilities over the past 40 years and recently launched true standards-based 5G NR service in Anchorage, now the nation’s northernmost 5G service area. Learn more about GCI at www.gci.com. GCI is a wholly owned subsidiary of Liberty Broadband Corporation (Nasdaq: LBRDA, LBRDK, LBRDP). Learn more about Liberty Broadband at http://www.libertybroadband.com.