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LONGVIEW, Texas (KLTV) – The Martin House Child Advocacy Center in Longview is another step closer to having a much-needed new building by holding a groundbreaking ceremony today. And it is nearly at its $6.25 million goal to cover the cost of the building.
With the turning over of 13 shovels, the groundbreaking for the new Martin House Child Advocacy Center was official. Martin House CEO Roxanne Stevenson said the center is ready to move forward.
“Construction costs are still going up and we’re still getting bids from subcontractors so we’re not sure what the final construction numbers are going to be,” Stevenson said.
Stevenson and Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt agreed a new building is needed.
“In 2025 more than 767 families found support through the many programs offered by the martin House. This new building will represent the possibility creating room for greater service, deeper care and expanded opportunities,” Stoudt said.
“It’s something that we want to make sure is going to serve our community for decades to come. It’s going to allow us to grow, to double our staff and also increase our programs. We’ve got a big job ahead of us in wanting to prevent abuse before it starts,” Stevenson said.
The building will have three therapy rooms, three interview rooms and three observation rooms laid out so multiple sessions can occur at the same time. It will sit on six acres adjacent to the old facility. In the meantime, the Martin House continues its work
“If you have concerns about a child in your life, be sure that you call and make a report. That’s always the first step in making a difference for a child,” Stevenson said.
Stevenson said the center is still about $300,000 short of its $6.25 million goal to cover the cost of the facility. She is hopeful construction can begin in the next few weeks. The center is looking at a spring 2027 completion date.
Full Article: https://www.kltv.com/2026/01/29/martin-house-child-advocacy-center-breaks-ground-nears-625m-goal/