The Martin House Children’s Advocacy Center in Longview, Texas, has officially commenced construction on a new facility designed to better support abused children and their families. This expansion will increase the center’s space to 10,000 square feet, nearly three times the size of the existing facility located on Garfield Drive.
The nonprofit organization has identified a growing need for services in East Texas, aiming to provide a more accommodating environment for children affected by abuse. According to the center, this new facility will allow them to continue serving vulnerable children in a setting that prioritizes confidentiality and comfort.
New Facility Features Enhance Service Delivery
The expanded facility will offer child-friendly spaces tailored to the specific needs of its clients. Significant improvements include separate waiting areas for forensic and therapy clients, as well as dedicated office space for staff and work areas for law enforcement and social services professionals.
Michael Clements Jr., the capital campaign chair, emphasized the ambitious financial goal for this project, which stands at $6.25 million. Clements noted that 94% of the funds have already been committed, showcasing strong community support for the initiative.
A ceremonial groundbreaking event took place on Thursday, attended by key figures including Roxanne Stevenson, CEO of Martin House; Melanie Mathews, chair of the board of directors; Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt; and Longview Mayor Kristen Ishihara. Community supporters, board members, staff, and campaign committee members also participated in the celebration, highlighting the collaborative effort behind this important project.
Impact on the Community
Martin House plays a crucial role in supporting children and families across Gregg, Harrison, Marion, and Upshur counties. The center currently serves more than 900 children and their families each year, and the new facility is expected to enhance its capacity to meet the needs of the community.
As one of 72 child advocacy centers in Texas and part of a national network of approximately 800 centers, Martin House is dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment for those who have experienced trauma. The new facility will ensure that they can continue this vital work for years to come.
