Billings Clinic partners with YWCA for on-site medical forensic exam room

During the recent Billings City Council meeting held on May 12, 2025, significant discussions centered around the establishment of a fully equipped medical forensic exam room at the YWCA campus, aimed at supporting survivors of domestic violence and other forms of abuse. This initiative, in collaboration with Billings Clinic, is designed to provide Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) exams on-site, enhancing the accessibility of critical medical services for victims.

The council also announced a strategic planning meeting scheduled for July 31, which aims to gather community feedback and involve local partners in the development of additional programming at the facility. This meeting follows a previous strategic planning session held two summers ago with the Family Justice Center Alliance, indicating a continued commitment to improving support systems for survivors.

Renderings of the new facility were presented, showcasing the layout of the intake lobby and partner offices. The proposed location is within a vacant shelter building on the north side of the YWCA parking lot, which is expected to serve as a vital resource for the community.

Council members raised questions regarding the demographics of the individuals utilizing the services. It was reported that the majority of guests are survivors of domestic violence, with a notable presence of stalking and human trafficking victims. The demographic breakdown revealed that most clients are women, though there is a small percentage of male survivors. The age range of those seeking assistance typically spans from teens to individuals in their seventies and eighties, reflecting the diverse needs of the community.

This meeting underscored the city council's ongoing efforts to address domestic violence and support vulnerable populations. As the planning progresses, the involvement of community members will be crucial in shaping effective and responsive services. The anticipated developments at the YWCA campus represent a proactive step towards creating a safer environment for all residents of Billings.