MISSION & HISTORY.
Through the strength and determination of many volunteers and community partners, First Step has come a long way with a rich and proud history:
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In 1976 Volunteers formed the first 'First Step' group which worked together to answer hotline calls from battered women, and in 1977 First Step became incorporated.
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First Step contracted with the City of Wichita Falls to open the first shelter in 1979.
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In 1985, the Sexual Assault Crisis Program was formalized and under a contract with the Texas Department of Health.
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In 1991 the capital campaign for the construction of the new shelter was completed and $500,000 was raised.
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In 1992 construction of the new shelter was completed and shelter capacity was increased to 35 residents.
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In 1995 First Step began the “Staircase Project” in conjunction with the Wichita County District Attorney’s Office and the Wichita County Justices of the Peace for victims who wished to drop domestic violence charges.
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In 2006 First Step offices were relocated from Ave. V to their current location at 624 Indiana Ave., in order to provide more space for expansion of programs.
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In 2011 First step renovated the shelter with new floors, kitchen cabinets and countertops, bathrooms, paint, new curtains, beds, and a new children’s therapy room.
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In 2012, First Step acquired new vans to reach the community and counties served.
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In 2018 First Step has increased its local, state, and federal grants. Thanks to continued support from volunteers, staff and community partners, we continue to help those who suffer from domestic and sexual abuse, and, also to provide education and training to help individuals, families and communities create lives free from violence.
Our Services.
First Step, Inc. provides free crisis intervention services for individuals who have recently experienced domestic and/or sexual violence, leading to emotional, mental, behavioral, and physical problems. Please call our 24-hour, toll-free crisis line at 1 (800) 658-2683 providing assistance to survivors of domestic violence & sexual assault.
Emergency Safe-House:
A 24-hour safe haven that includes food, clothing, transportation, information, referrals to other community services, and assistance with taking the necessary steps to reclaim independence.
Individual & Group Counseling:
Our Counselors help victims, their families, and friends cope with the trauma they have endured.
Court Advocacy:
Our Advocates can accompany clients to court, aide in communication with law enforcement, help clients seeking Protective Orders, and assist in filing for Crime Victim Compensation.
Hospital Advocacy:
Hospital accompaniment provided by staff and trained volunteers.
Case Management:
Our Case Managers can assist clients with resources for clothing, transportation, information, referral to other community services, and assistance with taking the necessary steps to reclaim independence.
Children’s Program:
Curriculum focused on helping children recover from experiences with domestic violence.
Education and Training:
First Step, Inc. offers Community Education and Professional Training programs.
Our Education Coordinator and Professional Trainer educate our community on an array of topics, including Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Dating Violence, Bullying, Healthy Relationships, Non-stranger Rape, The Effects of Domestic Violence on Children, and Domestic Violence and the Workplace. Members of our community leave these presentations with a better understanding of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault and the tools necessary to offer support and resources to survivors.
***If you are interested in having a representative from First Step, Inc. provide a presentation for your class or organization, please call (940) 723-7799.
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