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In 1977, there was no place in Salt Lake City where children who were at risk for abuse or neglect could receive short-term crisis care. In response to this need, the Junior League of Salt Lake City and the Utah Association for Children's Therapy provided funding, volunteers and a board of directors to open a new facility that became known as the Family Support Center.
The center's original purpose was to provide up to 72 hours of crisis or respite care for children under the age of nine, but as the community grew more aware of its function and purpose, it became clear the center needed to expand its offerings. The facility soon developed additional programs to help parents address issues that brought their family to the point of crisis.
The Family Support Center has evolved over its 33-year history. Today, the Taylorsville-based Family Support Center includes four locations: West Valley City, Midvale, Sugarhouse and Taylorsville. Executive director Bonnie Peters says the center has several programs designed to help families, from the original crisis nurseries to a counseling program to adoption respite services. One of the most utilized programs is the Life Start Village, which teaches homeless single mothers life skills such as how to find a job, manage a bankbook and develop a budget. The Safety Net program provides information and resources to assist those living in polygamous communities.
Bonnie began working for the Family Support Center as an intern while pursuing her master's degree. She stayed at the center for a few years after her graduation then left to work at another agency. She returned to the center seven years ago to spearhead the organization as its executive director.
Bonnie says the Family Support Center values all of its clients and is committed to helping them address their issues so they can move forward.
