Witham Opens Center of Hope

On Thursday, Witham Health Services will celebrate the launch of the first Center of Hope in Boone County. The center, located inside Witham’s Emergency Room in Whitestown at Anson, will care for adult victims who have experienced sexual or physical abuse.

Thursday’s grand opening event from 4:30 pm – 6 p.m. will include a ribbon cutting ceremony and refreshments at Witham’s Whitestown at Anson location at 6085 Heartland Drive in Zionsville.

“Sexual violence related crime remains an underreported and persistent issue in our community,” said Kent Eastwood, Boone County Prosecutor. “The opening of the Center of Hope in Boone County marks a vital step forward. Survivors no longer have to travel outside the county to receive the care and support they need. They now have access to a safe, compassionate space right here at home.”

In the Center of Hope’s safe and confidential space victims will have access to:

• Report abuse and receive top-notch medical care.
• Forensic exams performed by specially trained nurses who are sensitive to the unique needs of a sexual assault victim, are trained in forensic evidence collection and injury identification/documentation.
• Crisis intervention services.
• Follow-up medical care.
• Connections to community–based resources, such as mental health services, domestic violence resources, and counseling.

“Having the Witham Center of Hope creates an environment that allows victims to be taken care of in a compassionate manner and in a way that enables them to preserve evidence that is admissible in court,” said Kelly Braverman, President and CEO of Witham Health Services. “Witham has been Boone County’s independent health system for more than 110 years, allowing us to best understand our community’s healthcare needs. We are honored to be able meet the need for a Center of Hope.”

The Witham Center of Hope was created in Boone County through the generosity of the Witham Health Services Foundation and donors. Continuing contributions support the purchase of supplies to make victims more comfortable during their stay. To learn more about the Witham Center of Hope, visit www.Witham.org/CenterofHope.