GREEN COVE SPRINGS – As January wrapped up, so did the official declaration of Human Trafficking Awareness Month. But three groups said the focus to prevent child, domestic and sexual exploitation isn’t defined by a calendar. 

That became clear on Thursday, Jan. 29, at the Clay County Courthouse as the Clerk of Courts office, the Village Improvement Association (VIA) and Quigley House announced the completion of a warm and welcoming waiting room for civil department clients. 

County Clerk and Comptroller Tara Green said her department remains vigilant to help those affected by domestic violence and human trafficking. 

“There could be odd incidents where somebody might make or feel right with you,” she said. “It's happened more often than you would think. A gentleman, if you will, will have a young girl, trying to get his stuff without jumping the gun. Education with the employees helps. The science applies to the office.” 

Green said victims often come to the clerk’s office scared and confused. The packet of paperwork for an injunction against domestic violence is daunting, and it must be completed properly. 

Although the courthouse was closed the day after Christmas, Green said she met a woman at the clerk’s office to explain the process for filing the paperwork for an injunction.  Now there’s a safe, private and quiet place to go through the process at their own pace. 

Green’s office worked with the VIA, the state’s oldest woman’s club and Quigley House, the only dual-certified domestic violence and sexual assault center in the county, to create a safe space adjacent to the Recording Department where victims can feel safe as they quietly, and privately, complete their forms away from public scrutiny. 

The cozy room includes toys, games and crafts for children, a couch and chair, soft lighting and tables where work can be completed. 

“And everything was donated,” said VIA’s Janey Fox. 

“Not one dime of taxpayer’s money was spent on this,” Green said. “We're limited in what we can do with space.” 

Joining the special announcement were County Civil Department Manager Amie Herrera, Facility Support Specialist Tim Bell, Domestic Violence Prevention Advocate and Public Relations Specialist Laura Christmas, and Interim CEO Jackie Krug, Sexual Assault Services Coordinator Megan Ball and Housing and Outreach Coordinator Christina Kelley of Quigley House and Larianne Stutts, Janey Fox and Christy McCarthy with the VIA. 

“It's not just a room,” Christmas said. “If we have to have that hearing, someone seeking an injunction to protect, it’s absolutely overwhelming, It’s one of the worst moments of your life. It's very, very difficult. Making it right absolutely matters. 

“They have the opportunity to create a designated space. We’re absolutely blessed to be able to take something born from a shared belief. When people feel calmer; when they’re able to tell their truth, that can make all the difference. It’s not about luxury. It’s about intentions. It sends a message to everyone that this waiting room is their safe place.”