Victim advocacy expands
AIRWAY HEIGHTS – The Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) West Plains program is preparing to move into its new office at the Women’s Hope and Healing Center in January. The space, formerly known as the WHEN Warehouse, will also house victim advocacy services and provide resources such as clothing and food for participants.
“This will allow us to serve our participants in a more comprehensive way,” said Alise Mnati, director of the West Plains Safety Alliance, during the Dec. 19 West Plains Safety Alliance meeting. “It’s perfect because it’s right next to the police station.”
The City Council approved leasing the Women’s Hope and Healing Center, then known as the WHEN Warehouse, on Dec. 11 after a request from Police Chief Brad Richmond. Richmond noted that the additional space would address the growing needs of the police department and its community programs.
LEAD West Plains focuses on helping individuals with behavioral health challenges or financial instability through two levels of service: “light-touch” assistance for lower support needs and intensive case management for those requiring frequent engagement. The program uses a harm-reduction model, which aims to reduce the negative consequences of behaviors like substance use while promoting safer practices.
A safety manual for employees and Eastern Washington University students assisting with fieldwork is being developed to ensure clear protocols, according to Ashley Martinez, a case manager for the Airway Heights Police Department and LEAD organizer.
“We’re hoping to train new employees in this as well,” Martinez said. She added that Eastern students will join the program next month as part of its ongoing efforts to provide long-term, community-based support.
Clare is an Eastern Washington University graduate and a reporter at Free Press Publishing.
Reader Comments(0)