Wichita Falls ( KFDX/KJTL ) — Law enforcement now has a safe place to work and possibly relax, thanks to a generous offering from a local school.

Christ Academy welcomed local law enforcement to tour the newly dedicated space, named “The Refuge,” during a grand opening ceremony at its Wichita Falls campus, located on Stone Lake Drive, on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024.

The area will provide a space for the officers to work, take a break, enjoy refreshments, and stretch. Wichita Falls police spokesman Sgt. Charlie Eipper said the outreach of the local community, its members, and organizations, like Christ Academy, makes a positive change for the people who live and serve Wichita Falls and Texoma.

“The service it provides for our officers who are working at any time can stop here. Go in. They have quick and easy access right into the doorway of this room, where they can go and relax,” Eipper said. [It’s a] comfortable place to sit and just get away for a little bit while they take a break or lunch. That’s just a great service that they have done for us, and we really appreciate that.”

Christ Academy head of school Tyler Jacobus said the repurposed space was designed to offer an area to serve as a 24/7 police substation.

Jacobus said officers could find a quiet workspace, dining table, coffee station, fully stocked refrigerator, place to relax, and private restroom. He’s excited to be able to help serve a community need.

“The community benefit is we’re serving our local law enforcement. They have a very stressful job, and at times they need breaks,” Jacobus explained. “We want them to do that here in a place where they feel welcome, a place where they feel safe.”

Jacobus said that this not only provides officers with a safe place to work but also makes law enforcement’s presence known at their campus and keeps the officers from having to travel across town to the police department to do paperwork. The Refuge will be available around the clock with a separate keypad entrance.

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