Trent Bush, center, represented the Whiteside County Bar Association on July 8, 2016, with a donation of $2000 to the Whiteside County Children’s Advocacy Center, 501 N. Madison Street, Morrison, IL. Dr. Johanna Hager, Director, accepted the check; Whiteside County Sheriff Kelly Wilhelmi, right, attended the presentation. The Bar Association routinely donates to April House “every couple years,” stated Whiteside County States Attorney Trish Joyce.
Their donations and those of the public are necessary to cover an “annual income shortfall of $35,000,”she explained. “April House survives on grants.” However, that revenue does not cover all expenses.
April House is a short-term haven for child victims of abuse or violence. The building supports the work of Forensic Psychologist Dr. Hager. Here, in security and complete privacy, youngsters give testimony to Dr. Hager.
The County Board donated the building as an interview site, but it required considerable modifications. Sunshine Rotarians used materials donated by several area merchants to widen doors; make the bathroom ADA compliant; install flooring and carpet; build a 40′ indoor wheelchair ramp. It is invisible outside, because the ramp cleverly is located in the garage.
April House is the only agency in Whiteside County to provide specialized services exclusively to children who have been abused or neglected. With a compliant facility, the County has received some Government funding. Donations for operations are always welcome.
