Commission approves $30,000 for 32nd Judicial District Child Advocacy Center

Hickman County commissioners voted to award $30,000 to the 32nd Judicial District Child Advocacy Center to support therapy services and staffing. The motion, made by Commissioner Matthew Barnhill and seconded by Commissioner Devin Picker, passed on a roll-call vote.

The district attorney for the 32nd Judicial District described how local child advocacy centers perform forensic interviews that law enforcement and prosecutors rely on in child-abuse cases. The district attorney said those interviews "are the only type of organization that can conduct what's known as a forensic interview," explaining they are recorded and can reduce the trauma of testifying in court.

Morgan Bowen, the center's executive director, asked the commission for $30,000 to reintroduce therapy services to the three-county district and to help stabilize key positions including the forensic interviewer, executive director and family advocate. "This year we are asking for $30,000 again," Bowen said, noting the center is pursuing opioid-abatement grants, VOCA funds, United Way support and Department of Children's Services reimbursement to sustain operations.

Commissioners discussed contributions from Lewis and Perry counties and where to locate the line item in the budget. Finance staff confirmed existing nonprofit allocations would be adjusted to reflect the additional $30,000. The commission recorded a roll-call vote and approved the grant.

The funding is intended to expand services locally, move the center toward national accreditation and provide immediate support for victims and families while the center seeks longer-term grant funding.