A $950,000 expansion planned for YWCA McLean County’s Stepping Stones rape crisis center is expected to increase services by 35-40%, officials said Thursday.
The renovation of existing space will help create an exclusive client reception area, centrally located private restrooms, dedicated inclusive space for staff and volunteers, expanded counseling space, and a confidential, comfortable waiting room.
The expansion is funded in part by a $200,000 grant from the state’s first competitive Human Services Capital Investment Grant program. The YWCA McLean County said Thursday it’s “working with Workbench Architects and local unions for the design and execution of this expansion, expected to total $950,000.”
“Together, our community can work toward a future where survivors of sexual assault find healing, hope, and empowerment. Stepping Stones is committed to making a lasting impact in the lives of survivors, and we invite you to join us in this transformative journey,” the YWCA said in a statement.
Stepping Stones provides a 24/7 hotline, free counseling, medical and legal advocacy, support for survivors and their loved ones, and prevention education for K-12 students. “As this program has continued to grow and serve our community, it has become evident that an expansion is necessary to meet the increasing needs of survivors,” the YWCA said.
The cost of sexual violence in Illinois is more than $122,000 per survivor, the YWCA said.
