The first EBLC meeting of the year was held on January 15 in the Texana Room of the Farquhar.
President Carolyn Strnadel introduced Sarah Tupa who put on the program.
Mrs. Tupa is a victim advocate from the Mid-Coast Crisis Center. She gave an overview of the facilities and networks available which can work with individuals in need. Mrs.
Tupa emphasized the goal of the organization was “to empower children, individuals and families to live free from family violence, homelessness, sexual assault and substance abuse.” The Hotline number for receiving assistance is 361HELP (4357).
For the center to function adequately, federal grants are applied for in order to fund the $4.6 million dollar budget. Additionally, the thrift stores run by the group allows folks to donate items that clients can receive as the need arises. The shelter accepts men and children as well as women. There is a legal advocate on staff who stays busy arranging all kinds of needed paperwork for a struggling individual to succeed. Housing assistance is also available, rent free for up to six months.
Free counseling by trained social workers is provided. As a former teacher Mrs. Tupa was quick to stress the importance of the Youth Services that the Crisis Center has in the works – programs that provide drug, alcohol and tobacco preventions and interventions in school districts in a seven county area (Calhoun, Dewitt, Goliad, Gonzales, Jackson, Lavaca and Victoria). Mrs.
Tupa emphasized that the center is “changing lives every day.” The main office is located at 2101 N. Navarro in Victoria while there are thrift shops in both Victoria and Port Lavaca.
