Resource Center Opens

PEORIA (WEEK) -- The new resource center has opened on Wisconsin Avenue in partnership with Peoria Police and Heartland Health.

This is the second resource center for the department.

The site is set to be run by you.

"The purpose of the resource center is to use it as a way to reach the community," said Chief Loren Marion.

It's to serve as a one stop shop for community members to get help moving forward and solve problems.

Chris Johnson, the Focus Deterrence Project Manager for the department will be on site showing people how to take steps to get a driver's license, birth certificates, a G.E.D., job training, alcohol and substance help, tutoring, food, the list goes on.

"Problems I've run into during COVID period has been a place to meet and a place to sit down and do a needs assessment, and find out the things we need to do to help people get over

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.these hurdles that are holding them back," said Johnson.

"Things that like myself take for granted. The residents need those types of services to succeed in the community," said Chief Marion.

It can also serve as a safe space for residents in the East Bluff to bring forward complaints or make a report.

The space is donated by Heartland Health, who took over the old Kroger plaza.

Heartland's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Gregg Stoner said this is exactly what the neighborhood needs.

"If there is such a thing as preventive policing this is it," said Dr. Stoner.

The official hours are still being ironed out.

If no one is on site, you can call the non-emergency police number and an officer will meet you there.