Tempe opens family advocacy center to provide help to crime victims
Tempe has opened a family advocacy center. The confidential location is designed to serve all victims of crime.
Arizona State University is partnering with Tempe to provide services to students and residents ranging from immediate needs like shelter and orders of protection to longer term needs like counseling. Advocates meet with victims to listen and support their healing process.
The nearly 1,200-square-foot building has a living room, quiet room, children’s play area, yoga space, laundry room, and a kitchen with snacks and drinks. The city’s canine companion, a Labrador named Sully, will be on site most days.
In a press release, Mayor Corey Woods said, “In partnership with ASU, we have carefully designed this center to be a welcoming place where survivors and their families can feel comfortable and cared for as they work with advocates to access city and community resources.”
Tempe spent $800,000 in city and federal funds to lease and upgrade the building and expects to spend another $300,000 in annual operating costs. ASU will contribute $45,000 annually for five years.
People can get help — with or without involvement — by calling the Tempe’s Care and Hope Line at 480-350-8004.
