The first of its kind in Texas, the Harvest Trauma Recovery Center (HTRC) is set to open its doors to the public on November 1, marking a significant milestone in the city of Austin and Travis County. A grand opening celebration is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. as the HTRC debuts its unique mission. Developed through a partnership between the City of Austin and the African American Youth Harvest Foundation (AAYHF), the center is dedicated to providing comprehensive support and healing to survivors of violence, all at no cost to the patients.
"The Harvest Trauma Recovery Center will stand as a sanctuary for survivors of violence in Austin-Travis County, where they will not only receive top-quality mental health care, but a full array of wraparound support including basic needs, case management, substance abuse intervention, workforce assistance, and a host of social and educational programs to elevate the whole family," said AAYHF’s CEO Michael Lofton.
This groundbreaking initiative brings together resources and expertise to address the needs of survivors and their families in an unprecedented way. The HTRC is joining the ranks of 50 Trauma Recovery Centers (TRC) across the nation, implementing the TRC model, which is renowned for its survivor-centered healing approach that eliminates barriers for survivors and their families to access cost-effective treatment.
Michelle Myles, Office of Violence Prevention Manager, spoke about the significance of this model, stating, "The TRC model provides mental health trauma treatment for survivors of violent crime that effectively promotes survivor-centered healing and removes barriers for survivors and their families to receive cost-effective treatment."
The HTRC follows an evidence-based intervention model supported by the National Alliance of Trauma Recovery Centers (NATRC), offering clients a range of tailored services to meet their unique needs, including trauma-informed clinical case management, evidence-based individual, group, and family psychotherapy, crisis intervention, legal advocacy, and more.
Licensed psychiatrist Dr. Calvin Kelly emphasized the importance of this holistic approach, saying, "Survivors deserve a safe space where they can share their stories, process their experiences, and find solace among others who understand. From trauma-informed therapy and counseling to support groups, educational workshops, and holistic practices, our offerings encompass a holistic approach to healing the mind, body, and spirit, serving as a beacon of wellness for survivors to connect, heal, and embark on their path towards recovery with a strong support network by their side."
The dedicated team at the HTRC consists of therapists, counselors, social workers, and outreach personnel who are passionate about helping survivors regain their strength and rebuild their lives.
Austin City Council Member Vanessa Fuentes commended the center's impact on the community, stating, "Individuals, families, and communities are safer when they're taken care of. By serving individuals and our community at large, the Harvest Trauma Recovery Center will quickly become an invaluable resource for Austin-Travis County's most vulnerable residents. I can't wait to see how those helped by the HTRC go on to positively impact their communities in the future."
In addition to providing individualized care, the HTRC is dedicated to raising awareness about trauma and its impact on individuals and communities.
“I believe we need to take a public health approach to violence,” said Austin City Council Member Alison Alter. “By tailoring and targeting interventions to help survivors of violent experiences to heal and thrive, the Harvest Trauma Recovery Center will foster resilience in our community.”
Survivors of violent crime can contact the Harvest Trauma Recovery Center by:
- Phone: 844-428-HTRC (4872)
- Email: hello@harvesttrc.org
- In-person: 6633 E Hwy 290 #300, Austin, TX 78723 (Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.)
