Amberly’s Place Trevor Umphress says donations are desperately needed

Umphress addresses a misconception about where the victim advocacy center receives its funding

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - In order to understand just how far Yuma County has come when dealing with victims of abuse, you have to go back to the beginning. Prior to the existence of Amberly's Place investigations were lengthy, and traumatic to victims.

Once a report was received an officer would respond, they then would have to determine the gravity of the crime. In turn, a detective would be assigned to the case, already having spoken to two people the victim would then be sent to the hospital for examination.

Now, having to relive their abuse to three people, they then talk to a prosecutor, then a judge, and possibly a jury. Reliving the memory can be traumatic and exhausting.

In the present day, when there's suspicion of abuse the victim is transported to Amberly's Place. There, they meet a neutral counselor and their discussion is recorded to be used in court. The facility is equipped with an examination room and their rooms are designed to comfort victims.

For more than two decades Amberly's Place has helped victims become survivors. But, it couldn't have been done without donations from the public.

Now, a misconception about the facility is that they're funded by the government. Although, that's true with regards to their infrustructure.

Each year, Amberly's Place applies for grants which in turn pay for staffing, utilities and building maintenance. They also receive funds from area entities like the City of Yuma, Yuma County and other municipalities.

But, those grants do not cover victim's needs. This includes things like food, diapers and medication and can also include replacing slashed tires, broken doors and medical bills associated with an assault.

Those funds come from the community through various fundraising projects such as the Amberly's Place Thrift Shoppe and through online donations via its website.

Trevor Umphress the center's Director of Development hopes to one day be out of a job, meaning when the day comes that there's no crime, there won't be a need for places like Amberly's Place.