The Martin House Children’s Advocacy Center in Longview officially commenced construction on a new facility aimed at providing enhanced support for abused children and their families. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on Thursday, marking a significant step for the nonprofit organization which serves East Texas communities.
The new facility will span 10,000 square feet, nearly tripling the space of the current structure located on Garfield Drive. This expansion comes as a response to the increasing need for advocacy and support services in the region. Martin House caters to children and families across Gregg, Harrison, Marion, and Upshur counties.
According to the organization, the new facility is designed to create a more welcoming and confidential environment for children who have experienced trauma. “The new space will enable The Martin House CAC to continue to serve children who have suffered the trauma of abuse in a child-friendly environment with increased confidentiality for the foreseeable future,” the nonprofit stated. The redesign includes separate waiting areas for forensic and therapy clients, private office spaces for staff, as well as designated workspaces for law enforcement and social services.
Funding for the project has been a focus for Martin House. Michael Clements Jr., the capital campaign chair, revealed that the total goal for the new building is $6.25 million, with an impressive 94% of the necessary funds already committed. This financial support underscores the community’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable children and providing necessary resources for their recovery.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by several notable figures, including Roxanne Stevenson, CEO of Martin House; Melanie Mathews, chair of the board of directors; Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt; Longview Mayor Kristen Ishihara; members of the board, local officials, and various community supporters. Their presence highlights the collaborative effort to advance child advocacy in the area.
Martin House is part of a network of 72 child advocacy centers throughout Texas and approximately 800 centers nationwide. The organization serves over 900 children and their families each year, emphasizing its critical role in the community. As the construction of the new facility progresses, the Martin House looks forward to enhancing its services and fostering a supportive environment for those it serves.
