The Ponderosa Volunteer Fire Department launched its Victim Service and Support Center pilot program with a ribbon cutting ceremony Jan. 31. The center will serve as a hub for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking to receive services from the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office and trauma nurses, according to a Jan. 31 news release from Harris County Precinct 4.

“When a victim is involved in the Harris County criminal justice system, they can quickly become overwhelmed,” a Jan. 28 email from Ponderosa VFD announcing the new program said. “The Victim Service and Support Center will bring [county] agencies to one location that is close to the victim’s home and not in Downtown Houston.”

Texas Forensic Nurse Examiners, Northwest Assistance Ministries and TOMAGWA Healthcare Ministries aided in the creation of the VSSC, which is located at 17061 Rolling Creek Drive, Houston. 281-444-8465. www.ponderosavfd.org