Expansion of Betty Griffin Center’s Services in St. Johns County

In a significant move to assist more survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, the Betty Griffin Center has extended its vital services to an additional hospital in St. Johns County.

For nearly a decade, the Betty Griffin Center has been providing crucial support to victims of sexual assault and domestic violence through a dedicated unit at UF Health St. Johns Hospital. This non-profit organization, based in St. Augustine, has now formed a new agreement to extend this essential service to Ascension St. Vincent’s St. Johns County Hospital.

This expansion aims to streamline the process for survivors during their most vulnerable times. Kelly Franklin, the CEO of the Betty Griffin Center, emphasized the importance of minimizing the wait time in emergency settings. She stated, “We have the sexual assault nurse examiners who are trained and doing this on a regular basis.”

The process for survivors at the hospitals begins with an assessment to determine the need for emergency medical care. If such care is not necessary, the specialized nurses conduct forensic exams to collect evidence. This evidence is crucial for potential law enforcement involvement, yet survivors are not obliged to report at the moment. They retain the option to use the collected evidence later, providing flexibility for their decision-making.

Founded in 1990, the Betty Griffin Center offers a range of services beyond hospital care, including emergency shelter, transitional housing, and crisis counseling. In 2024, the center provided aid to 1,100 individuals, performing 30 sexual assault forensic exams, a testament to its vital role in the community.

Franklin reassured, “What we want survivors to know is that we believe them no matter what. We are here to help.” With the growing population in St. Johns County, the need for expanded services has become apparent, aligning with the center’s mission to support and facilitate smoother processes for those in crisis.

The expansion of services to an additional hospital signifies a vital step forward for the Betty Griffin Center, ensuring that more survivors receive timely and effective support. This endeavor underscores the center’s dedication to providing compassionate care during critical times, reinforcing its commitment to the community.

Source: News4jax