TIFFIN, OHIO – August 31, 2026 – First Step Domestic Violence Services is expanding its presence in Seneca County with a new secure location in Downtown Tiffin, providing individuals experiencing domestic violence with greater access to criminal justice support and resources closer to the county’s courts and related services.

First Step has provided domestic violence services from its Fostoria location for 46 years. The Downtown Tiffin location will expand access to those services and provide a private setting where individuals can meet with Criminal Justice Liaison Marrisa Orzechowski to discuss protection orders, divorce proceedings, court processes, paperwork and other needs related to navigating the criminal justice system.

“This location will give individuals a secure place where we can sit down together, discuss what the criminal justice process will look like and plan their next steps,” said Orzechowski. “Having a presence in Tiffin will also make these services more accessible for people who may otherwise need to travel to Fostoria for assistance.”

First Step is partnering with Victim Assistance to provide additional resources through the Tiffin location. Its proximity to the Seneca County Justice Center, courts and other community resources will allow Orzechowski to help individuals navigate services and connect with appropriate agencies.

The location is expected to begin serving individuals October 1, coinciding with the start of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Orzechowski will generally be available in Tiffin on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during court hours. Individuals may use drop-in hours or contact First Step at 419-435-7300 to request assistance or arrange to meet with Orzechowski.

Because the office is intended to serve as a secure location for individuals receiving domestic violence services, its address will not be publicly disclosed. First Step asks individuals using the location and community members familiar with it to respect the privacy and security of those seeking services.

“The proximity of this new location to the courts, law enforcement and Victim Assistance will make it easier for individuals to connect with the resources they need as they navigate the criminal justice system,” said Amy Kinney, Executive Director of First Step. “Having these services located close to our community partners creates a more accessible and coordinated environment for individuals seeking support.”

[pictured: Marrisa Orzechowski, Amy Kinney]

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About Downtown Tiffin
The revitalization of Downtown Tiffin began in 2011 with the formation of Tiffin Tomorrow, a grassroots initiative led by community members dedicated to promoting economic development and ensuring the long-term prosperity of the downtown district. In 2014, the City of Tiffin partnered with local organizations to serve as the official downtown development entity. Tiffin Tomorrow was incorporated into this effort, which now operates under the Seneca County Collaborative as the Downtown Development Board, the governing body for downtown revitalization efforts.

Since 2015, Downtown Tiffin has proudly participated in Heritage Ohio’s Main Street Program, further strengthening its commitment to historic preservation, economic vitality, and community engagement. Downtown Tiffin is also recognized as a nationally accredited Main Street America Program. Learn more at www.DowntownTiffin.org.

About the Seneca County Collaborative
The Seneca County Collaborative brings together the Seneca Regional Chamber & Development, Downtown Tiffin, and Destination Seneca County under one unified structure to better serve the businesses, communities, and residents of Seneca County. This integrated approach aligns economic development, tourism, downtown revitalization, and business services to create greater impact, improve access to resources, and drive long-term success across the county. Learn more at www.OneSeneca.org.