Community Corner
New Family Justice Center To Serve Jefferson, Gilpin Counties
"The center is designed to be a welcoming, safe environment for victims and survivors of violence," said PorchLight's executive director.
JEFFERSON COUNTY, CO — A new family justice center is set to open its doors Wednesday in Lakewood.
PorchLight, A Family Justice Center will serve survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, crimes against children, elder and at-risk individual abuse and human trafficking in Jefferson and Gilpin counties. More than 70 partner agencies will work together, many under one roof, to provide services for victims, the center said.
Those seeking help will have access to comprehensive legal, medical, law enforcement, emotional and community support services to assist in their healing, the center said.
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A grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at 9 a.m. Wednesday at the center, 11100 W. 8th Avenue, Suite 200.
PorchLight will begin providing in-person services to victims of violence Thursday. Referrals to the center can be made by law enforcement or community agencies. — more information can be found here.
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“The center is designed to be a welcoming, safe environment for victims and survivors of violence,” said Candace Cooledge, PorchLight Executive Director. “We consider those who come to us for services to be our “guests” as part of a process to help restore their confidence and sense of self.”
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The center will include a playroom, child care, a seniors' resource center and a video courtroom where survivors can participate in hearings and speak to judges, the center said.
The center will also offer forensic interviews, forensic medical examinations, civil legal support, Bilingual service, therapy and many other services.
The Family Justice Center model is recognized as a best practice in the field of domestic violence by the U.S. Department of Justice. One of the greatest challenges faced by victims in the aftermath of crime is trying to find a new state of normal, the center said. While many services are available for victims in Colorado counties, access to those services may require travel to different offices or searching websites.
The public is invited to watch the ribbon-cutting ceremony virtually on Zoom and Facebook Live:
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