Abigail's Arms seeks funding for SANE nurse in Cook County domestic violence program

The Cooke County Special Commissioners Court held a budget hearing on July 10, 2025, focusing on funding for various community programs, particularly those supporting victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. The meeting highlighted the importance of local initiatives and the need for continued financial support from the county.

During the session, representatives from Abigail's Arms discussed the critical role of their Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) program, which has been operational since 2013. The program provides essential services to victims, including forensic exams and emotional support, all conducted locally rather than requiring victims to travel to distant facilities. The current challenge facing the program is the impending retirement of their volunteer nurse, who has been providing services without consistent pay. The organization is seeking funding to hire a dedicated nurse to ensure the program's sustainability and compliance with state requirements.

The representative emphasized the collaborative nature of the program, which involves multiple agencies, including law enforcement and local hospitals. They urged the Commissioners Court to take ownership of the program by committing to financial support, which would enhance the community's ability to provide trauma-informed care and advocacy for victims.

In addition to the discussion on the SART program, other community initiatives were briefly mentioned, including summer programs for children at local libraries, which are particularly active during school breaks. The meeting concluded with a call for ongoing support from the county and other local entities to maintain and expand these vital services.

The outcome of this budget hearing will significantly impact the future of support services for victims in Cooke County, highlighting the need for community involvement and funding to address these critical issues.