Our Services
Who is seen at the Child Advocacy Center?
The Child Advocacy Center is available for interviewing, counseling, and medical evaluations of children under the age of 18 residing in St. Clair, Randolph and Monroe counties, who are alleged to have been victims of:
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Sexual abuse
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Serious physical abuse
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Violent crime (including being a witness to domestic violence, homicide, robbery, etc.)
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Kidnapping or attempted kidnapping
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Trafficking
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Exposure to possession, use and manufacturing of illegal drugs
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We also accept cases from developmentally delayed adults.
What services do you provide?
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Child-friendly forensic interviews
Forensic interviews are an important step in the investigation, producing vital information for investigators. Properly conducted forensic interviews are effective because they are objective, non-leading, and carefully documented. A trained forensic interviewer works to create a safe space for the child. The interview is conducted in a developmentally appropriate manner without asking suggestive or leading questions. Interviews allow the child to convey what happened at a comfortable pace. They will never force a child to talk to them. All interviews are recorded so that the child does not have to repeat the information.
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Medical evaluations
A complete physical exam is conducted by physicians from SSM Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center. A head-to-toe examination will be performed on the child. The physician will explain the process to both the parent(s) and child(ren) before the examination and answer any questions. This may include an examination of the child’s genitalia with the aid of a light-emitting magnifying instrument. This process does not involve touching the child and does not hurt. If necessary, a urine sample may be collected.
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Trauma-focused counseling ​
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Case coordination
A case manager is assigned to each family to assist and support them through the entire process. The case manager meets with the family, answers their questions, and connects them with referrals. Our case managers work to coordinate with relevant agencies to ensure that families are kept fully updated on progress. They are also able to provide court-presence support if it might be helpful. The case manager stays in touch with the family for as long as they need the support.
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Referrals to community resources and services
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Community education
Local schools invite our staff members to conduct prevention sessions for all students to attend. These presentations help children be more aware and prepared for any situation they may encounter.
What hours are you available to help?
The Child Advocacy Center’s normal hours of operations are Monday-Friday (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). Staff members are available after hours by calling (618)-277-1134.
If I want my child to be seen at the Child Advocacy Center, what is the referral process?
Referrals for the CAC must be received from DCFS or law enforcement investigators. The DCFS hotline number is 1-800-25-ABUSE (22873). To file a police report call their local number (see link below), or in an emergency, call 911. When a report is received, DCFS or police investigators will arrange for a forensic interview at the Child Advocacy Center.
Sometimes it’s hard to figure out what to do. If you’re not sure and need to talk to one of our staff members, please feel free to call the Child Advocacy Center during normal working hours.
How do I report suspected abuse?
First, contact your local police department or sheriff’s office. Find your closest law enforcement agency here.
Then, call the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) hotline: 1-800-25-ABUSE (22873).
What should I do if my child tells me they are being/were (sexually) abused?
If your child makes a disclosure, stay calm.
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Listen to your child without asking questions.
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Don't make the child repeat the disclosure to other family members or the alleged perpetrator.
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Don't confront the alleged perpetrator.
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Make sure the child is safe.
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Report the abuse by contacting your local law enforcement and the DCFS hotline.
If the incident occurred within last 72 hours and/or if there are any injuries, take your child to the emergency room. Do not bathe your child or change their clothing.