photo by: Josie Heimsoth/Journal-World

Velocity Church's First Responders Room, pictured Friday, June 14, 2024, is accessible to first responders 24/7.

A Lawrence church, in appreciation of the people who protect and serve the community, has dedicated part of its building for the exclusive use of local first responders.

Velocity Church, 4000 W. Sixth St., which used to house a Hy-Vee grocery store, has created a unique space on its premises for firefighters, law enforcement officers, paramedics and emergency medical technicians.

The room, which was made accessible on May 10, is designed to provide a “secure and welcoming environment where local responders can relax, unwind, and recharge during their demanding shifts,” said Velocity Church in a press release.

Pastor Justin and Marissa Jenkins, who started Velocity Church in 2010, said their inspiration was putting the community first.

“We’ve always had a heart to serve the city,” Justin Jenkins said. “We knew when we bought this building that we would want to find creative ways that would make a difference.”

Open 24/7, the room has several amenities, including a private restroom, dedicated work spaces, a kitchenette and several massage chairs. Several entertainment activities are also available, like a putting green, a television, a high-speed police chase pinball machine and other arcade-style video games.

Justin Jenkins said he has received many emails from the Lawrence Police Department sending gratitude to Velocity Church and its congregation for access to the room during lunch breaks and to cool off on a hot day.

The room was funded by donations from Velocity Church’s congregation, which also includes some local first responders. A volunteer team at the church refreshes the room daily and attends to maintenance.

The First Responders Room is physically separated from the main part of the church and is only available to first responders with a digital key code, which first responders can obtain by contacting their superior officer.