Boston Area Rape Crisis Center

The Boston Area Rape Crisis Center, or BARCC, is the only comprehensive rape crisis center in Greater Boston and the oldest and largest of its kind in New England. It provides free, confidential support to survivors of sexual violence ages 12 and up, of all genders, along with their families and friends, regardless of when the violence happened. Services range from immediate crisis intervention to long-term help, including counseling, advocacy and legal support.

Founded in 1973, BARCC helps survivors navigate health care, criminal legal, social service and school systems in ways that are meaningful to them. About 35 staff and more than 150 volunteers serve thousands of survivors each year across 29 cities and towns. The organization also works on prevention, training schools, colleges, police, health-care providers and businesses on responding to disclosures and preventing sexual violence, and its expertise is sought for legislative testimony.

What to Know

• Services are offered in English and Spanish, with other languages on request.
• Survivors are served regardless of immigration status, income, gender identity or other background.
• The center’s service area reaches more than 1.6 million people.
• BARCC is led by survivors, advocates and educators.