The Children’s Assessment Center was recognized by local elected officials for the organization’s 30 years supporting Harris County children and their families during a Feb. 26 news conference.
Executive Director Kerry McCracken said in a news release she is grateful for the continued support and collaboration with partner agencies, board members and staff.
"The work we do is solely focused on helping the next generation to thrive and to make our community a safer place for everyone,” McCracken said.
Since 1995, the center has operated as the only children’s advocacy center in Harris County, providing professional, coordinated services for children who have been sexually abused.
The impact
The center is one of more than 900 child advocacy centers across the country, including more than 70 in Texas, providing streamlined services to protect children and prevent abuse. At least 60,000 children are provided services annually at an advocacy center across Texas, according to the organization.
Before the creation of children’s advocacy centers, a streamlined process for children was absent and children were often interviewed multiple times by various law enforcement agencies and medical professionals.
“Here at The CAC, we know that having to recount abuse several times can be re-traumatizing and sought to find a solution to make this process as trauma-informed as possible,” the organization’s website states.
What they offer
By partnering with law enforcement, child protective services, county district attorneys and other community agencies, The Children’s Assessment Center offers trauma-informed, evidence-based practitioners including:
- Forensic interviewers
- Family and victim advocates
- Pediatric doctors and nurses
- Mental health professionals
- 2500 Bolsover St., Houston
- https://cachouston.org
