Children’s Advocacy Center of Bristol County Makes Lives Better

As part of our Southcoast Health Community Spotlight, we were happy to give some attention to the Children's Advocacy Center of Bristol County and Co-Executive Director Lara Stone.

The Children's Advocacy Center is a non-profit organization that provides aid to children and families affected by the trauma of abuse and violence.

CAC works closely with investigative agencies, family advocates, specialized health services and treatment services to help children and families who have experienced such trauma.

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"We are Bristol County's response to child sexual abuse, physical abuse and witness to violence," Stone said. "Our mission is to protect children and families who have been impacted by trauma and to educate the community. We are what we call in the social work world a 'closed referral process.' So, if someone suspects that a child is being harmed in some way, they'd file with either the Department of Children and Families, a law enforcement jurisdiction, or the district attorney's office."

The CAC of Bristol County is one of 12 centers in Massachusetts and has helped over 5,000 children since it opened in 2007.

Part of CAC's mission is to provide a supportive journey of healing and the first step is through mental health referrals and an assigned family advocate to the clients.

According to Children's Advocacy Center website, every family referred to the CAC is assigned a family advocate who serves as the primary point of contact and support person as they navigate the multiple systems and agencies involved in protecting children.

CAC's upcoming fundraiser events: 

• CAC's 7th Annual Swing to Support Golf Tournament will take place on Monday, October 7, 2024, 9 a.m., at Fall River Country Club.
• Free Trunk or Treat Event coming at the end of October, open to the children of Greater Fall River.

Folks who are interested can check out CAC's website or call 508-674-6111

Marissa Sebastiao contributed to this report.