First Family Justice Center in region making progress on development

After more than four years, our region's first Family Justice Center is on the brink of completion.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) –  After more than four years, our region’s first Family Justice Center is on the brink of completion.

The center is expected to open its doors in the next 9 to 12 months, according to Sarah Schanck, the director at One Safe Place Macon Family Justice Center.

While significant progress has already been made in the renovation of the historic 100-year-old building, Schanck says there is still much work ahead. However, Phase 1 of the project could be completed before 2026.

“Getting help should not be hard,” she said. “This center is one of three Family Justice Centers being built in Georgia, but this will be the largest, covering 30,000 square feet. It will serve as a vital resource for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, elder and dependent adult abuse and human trafficking.”

Sarah says center will be taking a holistic approach.

“We want to be able to support people from the crisis situation all the way to whatever that sustainable future looks like for them,” she said.

Among the many services offered, the center will feature a playroom for children.

“So when somebody comes in, if they need to bring their kids, we’re going to have a trauma-informed playroom with a children’s advocate that can take care of their kids or mom or dad or grandma or whoever is getting help. We’ll have three different agencies providing counseling. People will be able to access temporary protective orders, legal support, all in one building.”

As the opening date approaches, Sarah says you can go to onesafeplacemacon.com to find out more about how to donate or how to be involved in the work.