Empowering Children.
Restoring Hope.
Ending Abuse.
The West Virginia Child Advocacy Network is the statewide leader in the fight against child abuse. We bring together passionate individuals through 21 child advocacy centers to ensure that the children of West Virginia have access to high-quality, evidence-based treatment services that put their wellbeing at the heart of abuse investigations.
Empowering Children.
Restoring Hope.
Ending Abuse.
The West Virginia Child Advocacy Network is the statewide leader in the fight against child abuse. We bring together passionate individuals through 21 child advocacy centers to ensure that the children of West Virginia have access to high-quality, evidence-based treatment services that put their wellbeing at the heart of abuse investigations.
What Is a Child
Advocacy Center?
A child advocacy center (CAC) is a safe, child-friendly facility where child protection, criminal justice, and child treatment professionals work together to investigate abuse, hold offenders accountable, and help children heal. In the darkest moments, a CAC creates a safe environment for children to tell their story and begin their path to healing.
Do You Have Reason to Believe a Child Is Being Abused or Neglected?
Make a report to CPS by calling 1-800-352-6513 and your local law enforcement agency. You can also search for the nearest child advocacy center for guidance or help. If you are reporting an emergency, please call 911.
Featured CAC
The Mountain CAP Child Advocacy Center is a safe, child-friendly facility where child protection, criminal justice, and child treatment professionals work together to investigate abuse in Lewis and Upshur counties, hold offenders accountable, and help children heal. In the darkest moments, The Lighthouse CAC creates a safe environment for children to tell their stories and begin their path to healing.
Results That Matter
With 21 CACs, our organization was able to support over 4,800 children in 2022-2023 alone. According to this U.S. Department of Health and Human Services report, the associated lifetime cost of each child experiencing non-fatal child maltreatment is estimated to be $830,928 (2015 USD). This estimate includes the child’s associated lifetime costs for healthcare, productivity losses, child welfare, criminal justice, and special education.
Helping Survivors SHINE!
We currently serve 47 counties across West Virginia and have big, bold plans to expand official services to all 55 counties within the next five years. Help us ensure every WV kid has access to a CAC so that they can find hope, healing, and justice. Join the Universe of Support so all kids can SHINE!
Portions of this website were prepared under a grant from the West Virginia Division of Administrative Services, Justice & Community Services Section. Points of view or opinions expressed on this website are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the State of West Virginia Division of Administrative Services, Justice & Community Services Section or any entity of the Department of Justice.