Lily Pad Sane Center is dedicated to serving south Georgia victims of abuse and their families

ALBANY, Ga. – Lily Pad Sane Center is dedicated to serving south Georgia victims of abuse and their families.

Lily Pad Sane Center of Albany says their mission is to serve the community.

“Each time a child or adult makes an out cry of sexual assault or abuse, we are there to collect forensic evidence. Whether that forensic evidence is physical or testimonial. We also help connect fathers and their children that may need help with legitimation,” said Mary Martinez, Executive director of Lily Pad Sane Center.

Mary Martinez, Lily Pad Sane Center Executive Director, says the organization relies on the generosity of the community.

“Every citizen in Georgia has a right to a free forensic medical exam. So, each time we perform one of those exams for a patient, we have to collect their clothing. Right now, what we need is our everyday essentials. So, after that forensic medical exam, we need those athletic pants, leggings, or pajama sets; for ladies, men, and children. As well as undergarments. We can’t send them with nothing, we would like to give them something new that feels comfortable, and they can leave here feeling safe and clean once again,” said Martinez.

Lily Pad Sane Center works to ensure a comforting experience for the patient.

“Everything here is very friendly and very inviting. We try to make the experience for the patient the least traumatizing as possible. These exams are invasive, they are not like a regular exams done by a doctor. Photographs are taken and the most intimate parts of your body are examined, and that goes across the board for men and women. We see all folks, of all ages, of all different demographics. Our doors are open 24 hours a day and we never turn anyone away,” said Martinez.

De’Andra Jacobs reporting.

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