Frequently Asked Questions

What is a child advocacy center?
A children’s advocacy center (CAC) is a child-focused, facility-based program in which representatives from many disciplines — law enforcement, child protection, prosecution, mental health, medical and victim advocacy — work together, conducting joint forensic interviews and making team decisions about the investigation, treatment, management and prosecution of child abuse cases. A core belief in children’s advocacy centers is that the combined wisdom and professional knowledge of professionals of different disciplines will result in a more complete understanding of case issues and the most effective, child- and family-focused system response.


What does the “CARE” in CARE House stand for?
C - Collaboration
A - Advocacy
R - Response
E - Education


Can I report child abuse to CARE House?
Reports of child abuse cannot be made directly to CARE House. Children come to the facility through reports to child protective services and/or law enforcement. However, we do encourage you to call CARE House if you would like to consult or receive guidance on a particular situation.


Who do I call if I suspect that a child is being abused?
In non-emergency situations, call your local public children services agency to make a report about the abuse. Montgomery County Children Services can be contacted at (937)224-KIDS. If you do not know which agency to call, you may contact CARE House at (937) 512-1670 for that information. Please call 911 for all emergency situations.


Is child abuse that big of a problem?
Over 1,000,000 children are abused each year in the United States. 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be sexually assaulted before the age of 18. Homicide is the leading cause of injury related deaths in children younger than 4 years of age. The cost to society directly and indirectly is over 94 billion dollars.


How many children does CARE House serve?
CARE House serves approximately 600 children per year. The cases represent the most serious, complicated cases of child abuse in our community.


Is CARE Clinic located at the CARE House?
No. CARE Clinic is located across the street from CARE House at The Children’s Medical Center of Dayton. (For a CARE Clinic appointment, arrive at the Outpatient Center via the 2nd floor and take the blue elevators to the 4th floor.)  However, CARE Clinic appointments are scheduled through CARE House by calling (937) 512-1670.


Do children reside at CARE House?
No. Children come to CARE House to receive services, but do not stay here overnight.


Does CARE House charge a fee?
No. Additionally, families may qualify for the Victim’s Compensation Program through the state of Ohio.