District Attorney’s Office, Cal Lutheran Announce New East County Family Justice Center Partnership

The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office and California Lutheran University today announced the future home of the East County Family Justice Center will be on the campus of California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks. The Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved the lease agreement for a building located at 26 Faculty St. on Aug. 4, 2026, paving the way to expand critical services for victims and survivors throughout East Ventura County.

The East County Family Justice Center will provide a safe, welcoming location where victims of violence and abuse can access comprehensive support services under one roof. The center will serve victims of domestic violence, elder and dependent adult abuse, sexual assault, child molestation, human trafficking, child abuse and hate crimes.

“The Ventura County Family Justice Center is built on the belief that no survivor should have to navigate trauma alone,” District Attorney Erik Nasarenko said. “California Lutheran University has been an outstanding community partner for many years, and we are grateful for their commitment to helping bring these vital services closer to the individuals and families who need them most. This new location reflects what is possible when public institutions and community partners work together to create safer, stronger communities.”

The Family Justice Center offers free, drop-in services regardless of whether a crime has been reported to law enforcement. In addition to helping victims obtain restraining orders, the center connects survivors with a broad range of wraparound services designed to promote long-term safety, stability and healing. Services include connections to government and community resources, emergency shelter, as well as the ability to provide essentials such as clothing, grocery assistance, cell phones and other necessities through the Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation.

The new location will strengthen access to services by providing a central hub for residents throughout East Ventura County while creating new opportunities to collaborate with California Lutheran University. These opportunities could include student internships and academic partnerships to enhance services. The campus location also offers outdoor and athletic facility space available for youth programming aimed at serving children and families impacted by violence.

“California Lutheran University is honored to welcome the East County Family Justice Center to our campus, a partnership that reflects our deep commitment to serving the most vulnerable in our community and embodies our mission to advance justice, compassion and healing through meaningful collaboration between the center and our students, faculty and academic programs,” California Lutheran University President John A. Nunes said.

The new East County Family Justice Center builds upon a longstanding partnership between the Ventura County Family Justice Center and California Lutheran University. Over the years, California Lutheran University students have volunteered with the Family Justice Center and served as counselors at Camp Hope, a summer camp for children impacted by domestic violence and other crimes. The university has also partnered with the Family Justice Center on research initiatives focused on improving outcomes for victims.

The District Attorney’s Office and California Lutheran University also expressed appreciation to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors for its continued investment in programs that improve the lives of victims and families throughout Ventura County.

An opening date for the East County Family Justice Center will be announced at a later time pending completion of necessary refurbishment projects to the existing site.