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New Center for Healing and Justice to Transform Kansas City

Architectural rendering of the Kansas City Center for Healing and Justice

News Summary

Kansas City is set to welcome a $6 million Center for Healing and Justice in the Santa Fe neighborhood. Positioned at 31st and Benton Blvd, this two-story facility aims to uplift families facing violence and crime by providing essential services such as grief counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy. Construction begins this month, with the center expected to open in spring 2026, significantly expanding support for local families and creating a hub for community engagement and healing.

Exciting New Development Coming to Kansas City’s Santa Fe Neighborhood!

Kansas City is gearing up for an exciting transformation in the Santa Fe neighborhood! A brand new $6 million Center for Healing and Justice is set to break ground soon, promising a slew of services designed to uplift families facing the challenges of violence and crime. The pivotal facility will be strategically located at the corner of 31st and Benton Blvd, right across from the lovely Leon Jordan Memorial Park. Construction is slated to kick off this month, with completion expected in the spring of 2026.

Building on a Vision

The vision for this project involves replacing three vacant lots, previously blighted and unused, with a modern two-story facility that encompasses an impressive 8,800 square feet. The newly designed center will significantly enhance the presence of much-needed support services in this urban core area. With a firm belief in the transformative power of design, the center aims to serve as a beacon of hope and healing for the community.

Funding the Future

How does such an undertaking get financed? Well, it includes a fantastic mix of support! The project has secured $2 million in Central City Economic Development funding, supplemented by an additional $2.1 million in foundation pledges, $150,000 in donor support, and $1.7 million from new market tax credits. This financial backing showcases the commitment to uplifting the Santa Fe neighborhood and supporting its families.

What Services Will the Center Provide?

So what does the Center for Healing and Justice have in store? A whole lot! This center aims to redefine community support by offering a range of essential services tailored to address both socio-economic and mental health needs. Families can look forward to programs including grief counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, employment readiness, and much more. Specific offerings aim to empower families, ensuring they have the tools to thrive, especially in the wake of trauma.

A Hub of Community Engagement

Inside the center, visitors will find a bustling community hall, office spaces for consultations, training facilities, and even an outdoor patio for gatherings. This design fosters not only individual healing but also communal connection. The center is particularly focused on servicing communities of color, recognizing the disproportionate impact of violence and homicide rates in these areas. By bridging the gap between the community and the criminal justice system, the center hopes to become a trusted resource for local residents.

Aiming Higher with Increased Capacity

The Ad Hoc Group Against Crime, founded in 1977, is at the heart of this initiative. With the establishment of this new center, the organization aims to expand its capacity significantly, intending to help at least 1,000 additional families each year. This leap from assisting 700 families to supporting over 1,700 families annually marks a milestone in the mission to foster healing within communities impacted by crime.

What’s Next?

As we look forward to the groundbreaking ceremony, the anticipation in Kansas City continues to build. The Ad Hoc Group Against Crime remains committed to providing direct support to families in their neighborhoods, aiming to alleviate trauma and encourage healing. Through programs like crime prevention assessments and workforce development initiatives, the center promises to be an integral part of Kansas City’s fabric, paving the way for a brighter, more resilient future.