We help child abuse victims heal. And we equip people like you to stop abuse.
Check out our Annual Report to get an in-depth look at our mission and what’s happening at the CACSC year to year!
The Need
Every year, 1 of every 56 children in Smith County walks through our door as a reported victim of child abuse.
While no week is average at the CACSC, on average, over 20 newly reported victims here in Smith County come to us every week—all year long. And studies show that 60-90% of victims will never tell.
Here's how we help child abuse victims get justice, find hope, and start healing.
When child abuse is reported, the Children’s Advocacy Center of Smith County (CACSC) collaborates with Child Protective Investigations (CPI) and law enforcement to pursue justice, hope, and healing for victims. Here's how we help:
Forensic interviews
When a child is referred to the CACSC for suspected abuse, a specially trained interviewer hears and records the child’s story to provide each involved agency the info they need and ensure victims only have to share (and relive) their stories once.
Victim family services
When a child is abused, the whole family hurts. So, we give the tools and support to begin the healing process for the child and the non-offending family members.
Therapy
Our trained mental health professionals provide child-friendly, trauma-focused care to help victims heal from their wounds and move toward a brighter future.
Medical services
Our in-house medical assessments give law enforcement partners what they need to investigate the case. And they protect child victims from the stress of the emergency room.
Rainbow Room
From car seats and pack-n-play cribs to clothing and household supplies, the Rainbow Room is an in-house emergency resource center that empowers families to care for victims.
Victim Services Testimonial
“The staff were extremely welcoming. Although this has been a tough time for my child and me, they felt like an extension of my family and let me know they had my back.”
— CACSC Parent
We'll equip you, your children, your school, and/or your organization to prevent child abuse.
Statistically, 60% of child abuse goes unreported. So, for every 4 children who get help, there are 6 who don't. And that's unacceptable. So, we're equipping the people of Smith County to recognize, report, and prevent abuse:
For parents
Our Internet Safety Workshop, How to Protect Your Child guide, and Parent Center community resource directory equip parents with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to protect their kids.
For students
Our Community Educators present age-appropriate information to empower students from Pre-K through 8th grade with the knowledge they need to keep their bodies safe.
For educators
Our Trauma-Informed Schools training educates school administration and staff on trauma, how it can affect a child’s behavior, and then how to reach those students effectively.
For professional reporters
We provide training to daycare centers, church groups, and other professional reporters to ensure they are able to protect the children under their care.
For everyone
Not sure what constitutes "child abuse," which signs & symptoms typically accompany child abuse, or what to do when you recognize child abuse? These resources answer those questions and more. And as the name suggests, this training is, in fact, for everyone – including you.
Prevention Training Testimonial
“Whitehouse ISD is honored to partner with the Children’s Advocacy Center of Smith County to be a Trauma-Informed District. Our staff are now better prepared to recognize and respond to students impacted by traumatic stress, provide the tools to cope with difficult situations, and create an underlying culture of respect and understanding.”
— Christopher Moran, Ed.D.
Donate
Giving hope to victims only happens with the help of people like you.
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, our ability to help children victimized by abuse hinges upon the generosity of individuals, businesses, foundations, and community organizations who see the need and choose to stand in the gap.
