COVID-19 Statement

March 2020

We know that you have questions, and we feel deeply for the students whose collegiate careers have been disrupted – particularly for our seniors. Please know that we are here, and our ability to support and celebrate you remains ongoing. As we collectively navigate COVID-19, I respectfully share the following updates related to the Women’s Resources Center:

Closures

To support social distancing practices, the WRC will be closed to the public, as of Wednesday, March 18, 2020. Staff will continue to work remotely and each unit and staff member can be reached via phone or e-mail during regular business hours (Monday thru Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm). This means we are here for anything you need. If we don’t have the answers for you, we will work to find them. This includes housing, financial, or food-related concerns. Please know we are here to support you through this!

For updated information about Illinois’ response to the coronavirus, check covid19.illinois.edu.

Advocacy & Support Services (Confidential Advising)

While a number of programs and events are in the process of being cancelled or rescheduled, what is most important is that students, staff, and faculty in need of confidential advising services related to sexual assault and harassment, stalking, sexual exploitation, and abuse within a relationship are still able to access services through the Women’s Resources Center, with the following modifications:

  • In-person services are temporarily suspended, however phone/virtual advocacy and support for new, past, or currently-served clients and their support person(s) remains available Monday-Friday from 9:00am – 5:00pm.

  • To schedule a free appointment:  

    • Call (217) 333-3137 from a safe number; or 

    • Email womenscenter@illinois.edu or your Confidential Advisor (for current/past clients) from a safe email account. Please note email is not a confidential communication method and should only be used for scheduling purposes.

For free after hours (and 24/7) confidential support, call the RACES Hotline (for sexual assault and stalking) at (217) 384-4444 or the Domestic Violence Hotline at (877) 384-4390.  These resources and more can be accessed at wecare.illinois.edu.

Programs & Events

Until further notice, all events and programs (including those hosted by RSOs) are cancelled. We are in the process of postponing some of our WRC events (like the Strive Awards) and will share that information as it is available. We are still committed to supporting womxn students, while catalyzing the development of their personal and professional selves. Please do not hesitate to let us know what you need at this time.

We know that many of you are experiencing a range of mixed emotions. Please know that our staff remains committed to support our students, and any need that may arise as a result of this situation. The Women’s Resources Center family is strong and creative; together we can ensure that our communities have what they need at this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Sarah Colomé, M.S.
Director, Women's Resources Center
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
(pronouns: she/her/hers)