The Justin Center: Multiple agencies providing services for children, families in DeSoto Parish

MANSFIELD, La. – How can we serve children better? How can we support families better? What more can we do in this parish for those that need it the most?

Those are the questions DeSoto Parish sheriff’s Capt. Angela Bandy had following a casual afternoon conservation with Sheriff Jayson Richardson months ago. She expressed to him that even though she knew the sheriff’s office was committed to families, children and special victims, she felt there needed to be something more accessible in DeSoto Parish – and not having to make referrals to services in Shreveport.

Then that night at 8:30 p.m. her phone rang. It was Richardson. He was driving and had an idea. The two did a walk-thru of the vacant school board administrative office the next morning.

After months of renovation, the ribbon was cut Thursday morning on that building – now named The Justin Center. Inside are eight separate agencies working under one roof to strengthen and expand services for children, victims, caregivers and families in DeSoto Parish.

In the center are the Gingerbread House Children’s Advocacy Center, Project Celebration Inc., Faith & Fostering, Volunteers for Youth Justice-CASA, Volunteers for Youth Justice-Families in Need of Services, Shreveport Bar Foundation, DeSoto Parish District Attorney’s Office and DeSoto Parish School Board.

Each agency has its own contained office so that those seeking services can have privacy. General meeting rooms and a kitchenette are also included.

'Never be forgotten'

The center bears the name of Justin Bloxom, the 12-year-old Stonewall child who was kidnapped and killed by a sexual predator in 2010.

Having Justin’s name on the building should “remind us why this work matters,” Bandy said.

Justin’s mother, Amy Bloxom, recounted the 16 years since his death. The pain never subsides and the memories fade somewhat, but Justin’s laugh and caring spirit live on. And now he’ll never be forgotten.

“The day we lost Justin, my family’s world would be changed forever. But today, we get to see that his story didn’t end there. If someone had told me 16 years ago that Justin one day would have his name on a place dedicated to protecting children and helping families, I don’t know that I could have ever imagined it. Today, standing here, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude,” Bloxom said.

She continued: “For many years, my prayer’s simply been that Justin would never be forgotten. Looking around this room today and seeing his name on this center, I know that that prayer has an answer. This center is so much more than a building. It represents hope, healing and safety for children and families who need it most. If this center helps even one child feel safe or gives even one family hope during their darkest moments, then Justin’s life continues to change the world.”

Community partners

Everyone is aware of the tragedy of Justin’s death, Richardson said.

“That moment changed us as a community, but it also acknowledged our resilience,” he said, adding, “As heavy as Justin’s story is, it’s our intention that his name and memory are attached to this building as a beacon of hope and a chance at a new story and a reminder that there is a community that walks with you in your journey.”

Richardson said the day’s ceremony wasn’t just about cutting a ribbon.

“It’s a promise. It’s a promise that no one in DeSoto Parish has to face their darkest moment alone, a promise that resources meant to help you will be easy to find and easier to reach, and a promise that Justin’s name will mean something for every person that walks through these doors,” he said.

Richardson said The Justin Center wouldn’t be possible without the community partners.

“I hope the theme of together in DeSoto Parish is obvious. We’re blessed with a relationship among all of our parish entities that few in this store or any other state experience,” he said.

Richardson commended schools Superintendent Clay Corley for answering his call that same night he and Bandy talked. A partnership on the School Board-owned building was initiated then forwarded to the board for support.

He applauded Bandy whose idea, work and vision is obvious in “every inch of the center.” He also singled out Lt. Scott Atkins as the project manager, Deputy Billy Locke and the contractors.