On Tuesday, May 20, community and civic leaders joined with the Friends of the Juab-Millard Children’s Justice Center to break ground for its new Center. The facility, located in the Savage Bluff’s neighborhood, will provide a child-friendly, home-like environment in which to provide services.
The Children’s Justice Center coordinates the investigation of child abuse by trained professionals including comprehensive forensic interviews that are recorded and can be submitted as evidence during trials; mental health treatment; crisis counseling; medical services; victim assistance support services; emotional support for child and family; monitoring of case progress; and community education.
“The purpose of the Children’s Justice Center is to provide a safe, home-like environment so children can feel as comfortable as possible as they begin the journey of hope and healing from severe abuse,” center director Heather Williams-Young said. “Our new, purpose-built facility will be a beautiful home in which to begin that healing journey. We are so excited to be able to provide the gift of hope and healing for our children and an investment in the future of our community for all of us. The families we serve often walk through our doors apprehensively and alone, but they walk out with the support of a team behind them.”
Williams-Young spoke of a parent who was grateful for the care they received during a difficult time.
“I appreciate that everyone works together to help us,” the parent relayed to the center. “It happened so fast, and I had so many questions. I felt like we were falling, and you caught us. Thank you for helping us.”
The facility is planned to be approximately 4,000 square feet on three levels, with a large, covered porch, and will be ADA accessible with off-street parking in the rear.
The Friends said that they are very grateful to have received financial support from the State of Utah, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Wright Healing Solutions Foundation, and the Rural Health Group. The property was generously donated by Riley and Tana Park.
Construction is expected to be completed by spring 2026, at which time an open house will be held. The Friends will then deed the property to Juab County.
