We encourage referrals for children needing support. If you believe a child could benefit from our services, do not hesitate to refer them.
We conduct forensic interviews of child victims and witnesses using a nationally recognized model in a child friendly environment.
We arrange evidence-based therapy services and ensure accessibility regardless of the family’s financial situation.
We conduct assessments and offer referrals for services to meet the needs of children and non-offending caregivers.
We facilitate referrals for forensic medical exams for child victims.
We offer victim advocacy services to support families.
We offer training and education to children, teens and adults regarding child abuse preventions, trafficking prevention, and mandated reporting.
When concerns of child abuse arise, law enforcement or child protective services bring the child to the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC). We are a secure haven designed for children. Accompanied by a caregiver or other trusted adult, the child recounts their experience to a skilled interviewer who knows how to ask questions such that the child is not retraumatized.
A multidisciplanary team (MDT), including medical experts, law enforcement, mental health professionals, prosecutors, and victim advocates will convene to assess the child’s needs. THe MDT can determine the most effective course of action for the child.
The CAC offers a wide range of support services. From therapy sessions to medical examinations, to courtroom preparation, every aspect of the child’s well-being and legal resource will be meticulously addressed by our dedicated team.
1 in 4 girls
and
1 in 8 boys
will be sexually abused
825
children served by the Mississippi's children advocacy centers
We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.
There’s a misconception regarding child abuse and neglect, which is that it mainly occurs in lower-income areas and neighborhoods, but in reality, it could be happening in the house next door. Child abuse, neglect, and trafficking is a community issue, and although it’s a difficult subject to discuss, it’s mandatory in order to save the lives of children throughout the State of Mississippi.
In accordance with MS. Code 43-21-353, any individual with reasonable cause to suspect that a child is being neglected, abused or trafficked, is required by law to make a verbal report immediately by telephone or otherwise. Call the MDCPS statewide intake line at 1.800.222.8000 to report all allegations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation anonymously 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
.webp)
.webp)
.webp)
.webp)