Gunnison Valley Cares Coalition report: Coalition hears Children’s Justice Center update

By Coleen Ogden, Chair, Gunnison Valley Cares Coalition

The Gunnison Valley Cares Coalition heard a presentation on the Sanpete County Children’s Justice Center and its Friends Board during its monthly meeting Oct. 26.

Presenters Jessica Lambourne of the Friends Board and Rachel Lundeberg discussed the center’s work. The center provides a safe, child-friendly setting and coordinates services for children during child abuse investigations. The Friends Board helps meet the center’s needs through donations and volunteer efforts.

The center recently moved into a different building in Manti. The presenters showed a slideshow of the building before renovations and the improvements made to accommodate the center’s needs. Couches, blankets, pillows and a supply of food and snacks help create a warm, home-like atmosphere for children facing a difficult process. The goal is to help them feel safe and less frightened.

Updates from coalition members

Coalition members then took turns sharing events and updates from their organizations.

The Family Support Center in Cedar City offers help for teens and expectant parents through its Parents as Teachers program. Families can receive parenting guidance, learn about child development and connect with resources. Visits are available in person, virtually or by phone, and participants can earn baby supplies. For eligibility information, contact Andrea Singer at andrea@familysupportutah.org or (435) 586-0791, ext. 2.

True North Home Health & Hospice and Gunnison Valley Home Health & Hospice have joined as True North Home Health & Hospice of Central Utah. The organization offers home health, palliative care and hospice services in Central Utah, including Sanpete, Wayne and Sevier counties. For information about available services, call (801) 922-4790.

Gunnison City’s annual Fun Run & Light Parade is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 28, at 6 p.m. Entry is free and open to everyone, and a $100 cash prize will be offered. To enter the parade, contact Maddie Otten at 813-2210. The event coincides with Small Business Saturday, when businesses are encouraged to offer sales and remain open late.

Centerfield City’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 30, at 6 p.m. at the Old Rock Church. Activities will include ornament decorating, a children’s choir, Santa, hot chocolate and cookies.