Philanthropic investment translates to better care for victims of abuse

A generous gift from Charles and Betty Ewing makes renovation of vital program possible

Fairfax, Va – (June 22, 2012) – The Forensic Assessment and Consultation Teams (FACT) Department at Inova Fairfax Hospital is not a department that anyone would like to see busy. The department, which addresses the unique needs of abused children and adults, is vital to the community, but the hope is that one day it is not necessary. Until that day, the steadfast support of Charles and Betty Ewing has made the expansion and renovation of the FACT Department possible. In recognition of their gifts, Inova is pleased to announce these essential programs will now be known as the Charles B. and Betty G. Ewing FACT Department.

“The Ewing’s gift has helped us create a much more comfortable environment for the patients that we see,” said Dr. William Hauda, Medical Director of the Ewing Fact Department. “Because of their support, we are able to provide a more private setting, have more space to consult with law enforcement, and are able to better provide care and counseling to victims of abuse.”

The Ewing FACT Department addresses the unique needs of abused individuals, including innovative programming for the prevention, evaluation and treatment of child and adult trauma and maltreatment of children and adults.  It was home to the first Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) in the mid-Atlantic region and has since grown to include a pediatric SANE program, as well as a domestic violence program, physical child abuse program and a body cavity search program for the adult detention center.  Sadly, the department sees more victims of abuse each year. In the year 2011, 712 victims of physical and sexual abuse were seen by the specially trained professionals of the department. Nationally, 740,000 children are treated in hospital emergency rooms each year for injuries resulting from abuse, and five children’s lives are lost each day to abuse and neglect.

“Words cannot express the level of gratitude that Inova has for the Chuck and Betty Ewing,” said Dr. Reuven Pasternak, Chief Executive Officer of Inova Fairfax Hospital. “Their leadership and generosity will continue to have a lasting impact on the FACT program, and so many other programs throughout Inova and our region, for years to come.”

The Ewing’s gift to the FACT program is just one example of their commitment to the children and families in our region. Serving on multiple boards with in Inova and Children’s National Medical Center, they have provided guidance to the growth of both institutions and given generously to ensure that each has the resources to achieve their ambitious visions.

To learn more about the newly designed and renovated Charles B. and Betty G. Ewing FACT Department or make a gift to the programs contact Kate Luke at 703-776-3422 or kate.luke@inova.org.

1 Comment

  1. Deborah Brown on April 6, 2014 at 7:43 am

    Wow! Charles and Betty are generous and amazing! I was doing some research on SANE nurses for a class and came across this article. I’m touched by the kindness of the donation in an area that often gets over looked. You are an inspiration and greatly appreciated by many, I’m sure. Thank you!!!

Leave a Comment