Domestic violence and sexual assault care centers warn of instability without new county support

Sarah Berry, executive director of the (redacted) Trauma and Abuse Care Center, told the commission that her agency has struggled to build reserves and is operating with little cushion after a year in which the main grant that funds much of their work was delayed.

"If the county doesn't help us to establish stability, I fear that the care center is going to be not wobbly, but maybe a thing of the past," Berry said, noting the agency's long history and work in multiple settings including jails and shelters.

Jill Dudley summarized that the Willow Domestic Violence Center has requested one-time funds to address increased health insurance premiums, while the STA Care Center has ongoing operational requests to stabilize programming. Commissioners asked what other steps providers had taken; Berry listed fundraising events (a gala, denim day), monthly newsletters, and outreach to expand donors but said traction in Lawrence has been limited.

Commissioners pressed about partnerships and alternative funding; Berry said the care center has pursued fundraising but still arrived at budget hearings with low reserve balances and immediate needs. The Willow's request was described as a one-time need tied specifically to rising insurance costs.

County staff said they would follow up with additional budget materials and feedback from the partner agencies. No formal action or vote was taken during the session; commissioners discussed possible strategic coordination with the city to align funding for housing and supportive services.