PORT TOWNSEND — The Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Program of Jefferson County has found a way to get one step closer to victims in Port Townsend.
A victim advocate has been added to the Port Townsend Police Department in an effort to make the program more available to individuals going through what police describe as a “very difficult time in someone’s life.”
Police Sgt. Ed Green said he was happy to add Nicole Barnard to the office to provide those in need with additional support.
Victim advocates “help people get their life back together,” Green said.
“It’s pretty significant to have someone here to get in contact with a person who has become a victim as soon as possible.”
The program works with victims of domestic and sexual violence throughout Jefferson County.
Barnard, a native of Port Townsend, trained in counseling abuse victims at Western Washington University and University of Washington.
“This is where my passion has been for a long time,” Barnard said.
“It’s good to be right there when someone walks into the station or to be available when they call me.”
Offers support
Barnard said she sees her role as a chance to be on the victim’s side in what is typically a frightening situation.
“I’m not the police,” she said. “I’m not the one investigating, I’m not the one finding out what the truth is.
“I’m the one who is there to provide support.”
Barnard works at the station three days a week and is available on call at almost all hours, she said.
Cheryl Bozarth, director of the program, said she was happy just to have someone else join to help.
“It doesn’t matter if people report the crime or not,” Bozarth said.
“It only matters that people request our services.
“I want people to know that they can go into the station and just talk to Nicole without having to make police contact.”
The Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Program funds Barnard’s position through federal grants.
Bozarth said the funding is stable and should be able to support a representative at the station long term.
Dove House
The program also is continuing to work on construction of Dove House — a short-term shelter for individuals and families leaving a violent situation.
“We’re still working on it,” Bozarth said.
“We have the funding, but now we’re going through permitting and working on going out to bid on the project.”
The Key City Players are performing a benefit for the program at 2:30 p.m. March 14 at the Key City Playhouse, 419 Washington St., Port Townsend.
They will present “Here, There and Everywhere” for a suggested donation of $10 at the door.
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Reporter Erik Hidle can be reached at 360-385-2335 or at erik.hidle@peninsuladailynews.com.
