Freedom House is expanding its support for victims of domestic and sexual violence with a new 12-bed emergency shelter in the former Medical Arts building in Kewanee. This strategic acquisition allows the organization to provide a safe haven equipped with ADA-compliant amenities, which will cater to the pressing needs of the community. Along with housing, the center will offer a range of supportive services designed to empower and assist individuals in crisis. This move signals a significant enhancement in local resources aimed at supporting some of the most vulnerable in society. The Kewanee City Council approved the special use permit at the January 27, 2025, council meeting.
Freedom House has a 28-bed emergency shelter in Princeton. Staff at the Princeton shelter said Henry County residents are unable to use the Princeton shelter due to numerous factors, including children’s school and friends, being separated from their established support network, and inability to travel to their jobs.
“It is well established that the local presence of a shelter helps prevent further abuse and ultimately saves lives. Thus, it has been a long-term goal of Freedom House to establish a safe and secure facility in Kewanee. We were overjoyed when the opportunity was presented to us by OSF and after due diligence, we felt that this building had the good bones for the creation of a safe, secure, and welcoming Emergency Shelter.” Freedom House acquired 716 Elliott Street on December 18, 2024, which is the same day they submitted the special use application to Keith Edwards.
The Kewanee Police Department is rallying behind a proposed domestic and sexual violence shelter, emphasizing its critical role in the community. Police Chief Stephen Kijanowski underscored the difficulties victims face when forced to seek help far from home. “The services that Freedom House intends to provide are essential to addressing the needs of our community, and we believe this shelter will play a critical role in enhancing the safety and well-being of Kewanee residents,” he stated. Local leaders hope this initiative will provide a safe haven for those in need, fostering a stronger, more secure community.
The facility will have six double bedrooms with ensuite baths, a communal kitchen and dining areas, a living room, a children’s playroom, a library/computer room, a counseling room, and an intake room for client admissions. The renovation will include new mechanicals, plumbing, wiring, windows, doors, roof, exterior landscaping, and a downsized parking lot.
The office in Kewanee focuses primarily on counseling services, and the office in Cambridge provides legal advocacy. Both will continue offering these services.
Freedom House is a non-profit human service agency that provides supportive services to victims of domestic and sexual violence and their dependents in Bureau, Henry, Marshall, Putnam, and Stark Counties. Services include counseling, psychotherapy, legal and medical advocacy, and emergency shelter for victims fleeing abuse.