Jones County supervisors approve funds for child advocacy center
LAUREL, Miss. ( WHLT ) – Jones County leaders voted to approve funds for the Cherished Hearts Child Advocacy Center in Laurel.
The increased funding amount of $8,600 will help pay for five forensic interviews and additional services to children and families of abuse.
Forensic interviews allow an abused child to be interviewed in a safe environment without needing to testify in court. Since opening in August , the center has helped more than 40 families.
Hattiesburg releases draft of Safe Roads plan
"It has continued to increase each month. I do see that, and I think there's more awareness. There's more awareness that we're here in order to provide these services," said Robin G. Gibson, executive director of Cherished Hearts Child Advocacy Center.
Jones County supervisors had previously budgeted $6,800 in funds, which is the cost of four forensic interviews. They decided to pay for an additional interview after hearing about the number of families being serviced.
"They're doing a great job. I think they're very vital. It's a service that has to be provided in the world we live in today. So, I mean, and it's a lot better on everybody if it can be done locally than it would be to transport somebody, you know, all the way to the coast," said Supervisor George Walters.
Cherished Hearts depends on grants and funding to pay for its services. The average costs for services provided to each family is around $1,700.
Watch for us in your inbox.
Subscribe Now
