VCDA/Cal Lutheran partner on new Family Justice Center
The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office and California Lutheran University announced that the future home of the East County Family Justice Center will be on the campus of California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks.
The Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved the lease agreement for a building located at 26 Faculty Street on Aug. 4, paving the way to expand critical services for victims and survivors throughout East Ventura County, according to the press release.
The East County Family Justice Center will provide a safe, welcoming location where victims of violence and abuse can access comprehensive support services under one roof. The center will serve victims of domestic violence, elder and dependent adult abuse, sexual assault, child molestation, human trafficking, child abuse, and hate crimes, according to the press release.
“The Ventura County Family Justice Center is built on the belief that no survivor should have to navigate trauma alone,” said District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. “California Lutheran University has been an outstanding community partner for many years, and we are grateful for their commitment to helping bring these vital services closer to the individuals and families who need them most. This new location reflects what is possible when public institutions and educational partners work together to create safer, stronger communities.”
The new location will strengthen access to services by providing a central hub for residents throughout East Ventura County while creating new opportunities to collaborate with California Lutheran University. These opportunities could include student internships and academic partnerships to enhance services. The campus location also offers outdoor and athletic facility space available for youth programming aimed at serving children and families impacted by violence, according to the press release.
“California Lutheran University is honored to welcome the East County Family Justice Center to our campus, a partnership that reflects our deep commitment to serving the most vulnerable in our community and embodies our mission to advance justice, compassion and healing through meaningful collaboration between the center and our students, faculty and academic programs,” CLU President John A. Nunes said.
An opening date for the East County Family Justice Center will be announced at a later time pending completion of necessary refurbishment projects to the existing site.
