A Children’s Advocacy Center is a child-friendly facility where professionals work together to provide comprehensive services to child abuse victims and their families.

CACs offer a range of services, including forensic interviews, medical exams, therapy, and support for children and their families affected by abuse.

CACs provide a safe and supportive environment for children to share their experiences through a specialized forensic interview, reducing the need for multiple interviews.

CACs have a multidisciplinary team, including forensic interviewers, therapists, medical professionals, law enforcement, and child protective services, all collaborating to ensure the well-being of the child.

Children’s Advocacy Centers may be nonprofit organizations or operate within government agencies. They often collaborate with various entities to ensure the best outcomes for children.

Typically, services at a CAC are provided at no cost to the family. Funding may come from grants, donations, or government support.

Forensic interviews at CACs are conducted by specially trained professionals to gather accurate and reliable information while minimizing additional trauma for the child.

Medical exams are conducted by trained professionals to assess and document any physical injuries related to abuse. These exams are performed with sensitivity and respect for the child’s well-being.

Children may be referred to a CAC by law enforcement, child protective services, medical professionals, or other community agencies. Some may also self-refer.

Yes, many CACs provide therapeutic services for children and their families to help them cope with the emotional impact of abuse.

Donations, volunteering, and spreading awareness about the services CACs offer are great ways to support these vital organizations in their mission to help abused children.

CACs prioritize the confidentiality of the information shared by families and children, following legal and ethical guidelines. However, there are mandatory reporting requirements for child abuse.