What is a child advocacy center?
A children’s advocacy center (CAC) is a child-centered, facility-based program in which representatives from many disciplines — law enforcement, child protection, prosecution, mental health, medical and victim advocacy — work together, conducting 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 advocacy center by a referral from child protective services and/or law enforcement after a report has been made. 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 the statewide child abuse hotline at 855-O-H-CHILD (855-642-4453) 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 and 1 in 10 children 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 nearly 1,000 children in Montgomery County per year. The cases represent the most serious, complex cases of child abuse in our community. Learn more about other statistics.
What if I don’t live in Montgomery County?
Along with CARE House, the Dayton region is home to two other children’s advocacy centers. If you do not live in the Dayton region please visit the National Children’s Alliance website to find a children’s advocacy center near you.
- Michael’s House of Greene County
- The Children’s Advocacy Center of Warren County
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.
How can I become involved with CARE House?
For more information on how to volunteer with or donate to CARE House please visit our how to help section.
Where is CARE House located?
The new CARE House facility is located at 410 Valley St. on the same side of the street as Dayton Children’s Hospital. Please note that if you type CARE House into a GPS, it may bring up 741 Valley St. This is our old address. Be sure to type in 410 Valley St. to ensure you make it to our facility.
Is CARE Clinic located at the CARE House?
No. CARE Clinic is located in Dayton Children’s Hospital. However, CARE Clinic appointments are scheduled through CARE House by calling (937) 641-4545.
Where do I park?
Parking is located free of charge adjacent to our building. CARE House is also accessible by public transportation.