The Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) is part of The CARE Center. It provides a safe and supportive place where abuse concerns can be explored. The CAC is special because it exists solely to provide a child-focused approach to investigation of suspected abuse and neglect. It strives to reduce as much stress as possible for the parents/caregivers and child. 

Prior to establishing the CAC, Indiana County children with alleged child abuse reports may have had to tell their story to multiple adults. The child may have been taken to a police station and a doctor’s office or hospital. They may have had to tell their story to police, a Children and Youth Services case worker, and an attorney. You can imagine how overwhelming and scary this would be for children. 

These people now come to the child at the CAC. Police, a Children and Youth case worker, and the attorney from the District Attorney’s office can watch the interview. The CAC is designed to reduce stress for children. From our waiting area to the forensic interview room, the CAC is designed to feel safe and welcoming.