ST. GEORGE — It’s heart wrenching to see a young child or teenager struggle to find words to describe the pain they have experienced at the hands of an adult or older child. Fortunately, Washington County has a facility that provides a safe, comfortable setting for these children and their family members.
On Wednesday, members of the community will have an opportunity to tour the Washington County Children’s Justice Center as part of the “Meet the Chamber” luncheon.
The Washington County Children’s Justice Center’s first interview with a suspected child abuse victim was February 1997. At that time, they were located in a small home donated by Dixie Regional Medical Center and further helped along by contributions of money and furnishings from the community.
It was anticipated they would serve 100 to 150 children per year at most, but as years went by and an average of 300 children were being interviewed each year, it became clear that a larger facility was needed. Again, thanks to the generosity of the Washington County’s citizens, money was raised, supplies and labor were donated and the current facility opened in April 2008.
The Washington County Children’s Justice Center, now located at 463 E. 500 South in St. George, stands as tribute to a caring community. No public monies were used to fund the building, and it is mortgage-free.
The center provides a setting where professionals can sit with the child and their family members and obtain needed information and details. The process begins a path of healing for the child and the family.
Stop by the center anytime between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Wednesday to take a tour and enjoy good company and free food.
Event details
- What: “Meet the Chamber” luncheon at Washington County Children’s Justice Center.
- When: Wednesday, Aug. 23. Stop in anytime between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
- Where: Washington County Children’s Justice Center, 463 E. 500 South, St. George.
- This event is free and open to the public.
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