ORLANDO, Fla. — The growing problem of domestic violence is getting a major helping hand.
Construction started Wednesday on a new facility to help the abused find shelter and safety. It's being called "A safe haven for families."
Those behind the new facility said it's a temporary home, filled with light and hope.
With more than 60,000 people in abusive relationships in central Florida, the new facility won't solve the problem, but it will help keep countless victims and their families safe and in a healing environment.
With the current Harbor House bursting at the seams, a ceremonial groundbreaking in downtown Orlando kicked off a much-needed expansion.
"Women are discovering that there is a way out, but one of the most important things is they need is a shelter and housing that's not just safe, but offers light and hope, and that's what Harbor House does," Orange County Mayor Jacobs said.
The architects titled their work "Building Courage," saying it takes such incredible courage for survivors to leave their abuser. Now those who leave abusive relationships will soon be welcomed home to a 199-bed emergency housing facility.
Last year the Harbor House facility helped more than 15,000 domestic abuse victims and their families.
"Those children, if not provided the help and the safety net they need, there's no telling what the prognosis is for their future and our society," Jacobs said.
The facility is being paid for by several sources: Orange County paid $2 million, the Morgan and Morgan Law Firm chipped in $1 million and the city of Orlando is helping with $750,000.
Harbor House officials are still trying to raise an additional $2.7 million
WFTV
