The new Violence Response Team suite is now open at Bon Secours Southside Medical Center
Attendees gathered to celebrate its opening, made possible by donors like you
On September 24, Bon Secours held a ceremony for the new Violence Response Team (VRT) suite at Southside Medical Center (SMC). Around 100 community leaders, donors and VRT partners attended. The ceremony featured a dedication, blessing and ribbon cutting. Attendees also got to personally tour the new suite, which is located near SMC's emergency department.
Generous donations to the Bon Secours Richmond Health Care Foundation funded this project. From concept to construction, Foundation supporters generously dedicated themselves to the cause.
And what a critical cause it is. Petersburg, VA has one of the nation's highest rates of violent incidents, with increases in recent years. Often, patients at SMC's Level 3 Trauma Center have injuries from violence. To answer the call for more help within the community, Bon Secours decided to expand VRT services from Richmond to Petersburg. Donors and supporters like you stepped up to make that possible.
The new 2,200 square-foot VRT suite at SMC is open 24 hours a day. Specialty forensic nurses make sure victims have the care they need around the clock. The space includes exam rooms, waiting rooms, a consultation room and a staff resiliency room. Its design ensures comprehensive care for patients and a supportive environment for staff.
Bon Secours Richmond Health Care Foundation is still fundraising to complete the VRT expansion to SMC. Which means you still have the opportunity to help us hit our goal! We are honored to be selected for a $125,000 challenge grant by Bon Secours Mercy Health Foundation. In order to receive the grant, we must match the amount. Funds raised now will go toward finishing and outfitting the new suite. Your support will make a big difference for victims of violence in Petersburg.
Related Campaign
The Campaign for Violence Response Team Expansion
Help us bring the critical work of our Violence Response Team to a brand new unit at Southside Medical Center in Petersburg, VA. This expansion will ensure that victims of violence get the care they need close to home.