Williamson County has entered into an agreement with Hope Alliance to allow the nonprofit agency to use a county facility as a temporary shelter while it builds a new location in Leander.

The organization, which is in the process of moving from its two Round Rock locations, provides assistance and shelter to victims of family violence and sexual assault in Williamson County. As it works to expand its facilities from 30 beds to more than 90, Hope Alliance was in need of a space to continue its work, having served 194 clients in 2022 at its emergency shelter.

“There’s a huge public purpose behind this,” said Precinct 2 County Commissioner Cynthia Long. “It’s a great opportunity to use something that we have to meet a real need in our community.”

In addition to using the property, Hope Alliance asked the county to fund six months of operations at the building for $194,112, which the Williamson County Commissioners Court approved using American Rescue Plan Act funds for on Feb. 7.

Beginning in April, Hope Alliance will have staff living on-site at the temporary shelter to provide 24/7 supervision. Meanwhile, the organization expects its new facility to be completed by the end of 2024.