MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- On April 7, 2016 a ribbon cutting ceremony was held for the new Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) location at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida.

Due to some needed construction to the old building, SAPRO, as well as the Equal Opportunity (EO) Office, was relocated to a nearby building. As a benefit, the staff was allowed input on the renovations of their new building.

"We held the ceremony so people would know where our new location was," said Kathy Foley, installation SARC. "We are thrilled with the renovations and to be in our new building."

Previously collocated, the new building now provides SAPRO and EO separate areas, as well as parking lots, on opposite sides of the building. Additionally, SAPRO has its own classroom for training victim advocates (VA). Additionally, each room in the building is soundproofed for privacy.

Partnering SARCs from other branches of service around MacDill were invited to the event. Some of those SARCs held the ceremonial ribbon to be cut by Lt. Col. Gregory Pleinis, director of staff with the 6th Wing Staff Agency. After the ribbon cutting, refreshments were offered in the new classroom.

"The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response mission is critical to the health of our force, ensuring victims receive compassionate and timely care," said Pleinis. "This facility is an investment not just in a single office, but reflects the importance of caring for the members of Team MacDill."

The new location of SAPRO and EO is now at 3010 Egret Ave., Bldg. 1079. For information on programs or assistance please call 813-828-2678 or the 24 hour MacDill Response Line at 813-828-SARC (7272).