ANDOVER, Kansas – Child abuse is a growing problem in south central Kansas, but victims in Butler, Elk and Greenwood counties will soon be able to get the help they need closer to home.
Donated land on the site of Hope Community Church in Andover will be the future location of the Sunlight Children’s Home. It’s a temporary, emergency shelter for victims of abuse in Butler, Elk and Greenwood counties who are currently sent to the Wichita Children's Home.
“We wanted to have something that would be closer to home, more like home, allow them, if necessary, to go to school and be with their siblings,” said Suzi Thien, executive director of the Sunlight Children’s Advocacy and Rights Foundation or SCARF.
The project has been in the works for the last five years. Annual fundraisers known as Buckaroo Balls have brought in more than $200,000 in seed money. But it wasn't until recently, that the project took a big step forward with the donation of land.
“It was kind of like being a catalyst of taking the one organization and the church and bringing them together,” said Tom Howland, associate pastor at Hope Community Church and SCARF board president.
When Hope Community Church bought 33 acres off the turnpike years ago, it didn't know exactly how it would use all the land except to benefit God's children. With the children's home in its backyard, the church and its members will be able to see that mission come to life first-hand.
Sitting on three acres of church land, the energy-efficient home will feature five bedrooms and an open kitchen, living and dining area.
“We felt that by creating this farmhouse typology we could create a home where all the kids could come together in a central living space to share their experiences and be able to socialize and heal together,” said Tod Ford, vice president of GLMV Architecture.
“If we can provide a wonderful environment for them now and help them heal, hopefully we can help stop that cycle,” said Susan Koslowky, chair of the Buckaroo Balls and SCARF board member.
Those involved with the project believe the home will help stop the cycle of abuse and give abuse victims a better life.
“We think it's going to be a safe and secure place for everybody,” said Steve Weldon, senior pastor at Hope Community Church.
SCARF still needs more money before it can break ground on the children's home. If you'd like to help, we've posted a link to their website on this page.
