The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) recently revealed the refurbished lobby of the Family Advocacy Center (FAC), designed to serve as a sanctuary for victims and survivors of crime. The center, which witnesses dozens of individuals seeking assistance from investigators or service providers each day, has undergone a transformation aimed at making the space more welcoming and efficient.
This renovation not only offers a more inviting environment for visitors but also provides additional room for service providers and advocates. This expansion was made possible due to several detectives relocating to a newly remodeled area within the APD Main headquarters.
The refurbishment was financed by a nearly $70,000 grant from the Crime Victims Reparation Commission. The upgrades include fresh paint, new furniture, monitors, a kiosk check-in system, a coffee and snack bar, and a special corner dedicated to children. The department endeavored to incorporate everything that someone might require during their visit.
Mayor Tim Keller expressed his support for the project saying, “The staff and partners at the Family Advocacy Center help our community during their darkest days. Victims and their families deserve this welcoming space where they can feel safe and supported as they navigate tough times.”
A personal touch was added to the revamped lobby thanks to Dan Humbles, the City’s Horticulturist. He selected plants with healing properties to fill the space in memory of his sister who was lost to homicide. Humbles has had direct experience with FAC's services when he collaborated with investigators and APD’s Victims Assistance Unit following his sister's tragic death. A plaque in her honor now adorns one of the walls.
Chief Harold Medina shared his thoughts on the significance of this facility stating, “Within the Family Advocacy Center, we investigate some of the worst crimes an individual can endure, and the impact of crime can go well beyond just the person who was victimized. Whether a survivor walks through the door of the FAC or a family who lost someone to homicide sits in this room, we want them to feel that we are here for them, and they are safe and will receive the services and care they need.”
The Family Advocacy Center is home to the Criminal Investigations Division of the Albuquerque Police Department as well as several other organizations including SANE (the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners), Domestic Violence Resource Center, Children Youth and Families Department, New Mexico Legal Aid, UNM School of Medicine Para los Niños, Rape Crisis Center of Central New Mexico, and United Way of Central New Mexico.
