Sedgwick County Commissioners have voted to approve a one-time grant of $2 million toward a capital campaign to expand facilities and services for the Child Advocacy Center.

The funding is for the CAC “Opening the Door” campaign that will be working to raise $12.8 million for the expansion.   CAC chief executive officer Diana Schunn said private donations have raised $2.4 million so far and more funding requests have been made.

The CAC has had a 30 percent increase in cases over the past four years and Schunn said there is a need to expand therapy, medical and other services provided to children who are victims of abuse and neglect.  She said the expansion would nearly double the current footprint to allow for enhanced services and future growth.   The building also houses the Exploited and Missing Child Unit for Wichita Police and the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office.  The District Attorney’s Office and the KU Medical Center also have space in the building.

Schunn said the plan is for construction to begin in late 2024 with completion in 2026.

Commissioners voted 4-0 to approve the funding, with Commissioner Jim Howell abstaining because he has served on the board of directors for the CAC this year.