Children and youth suffering from abuse now have a new place to go for support and treatment in Calgary.
Four government agencies have come together to form the Calgary Child Advocacy Centre, the first facility of its kind in Canada that will provide support to children and youth experiencing abuse.
The centre is a joint effort by the Calgary and Area Child and Family Services, Calgary Crown Prosecutors, Calgary Police Service, and Alberta Health Services.
This is the first time all four groups will be working under one roof to focus on prevention and treatment of child abuse, victims' lives, and putting criminals behind bars.
"Police officers, social workers, health workers and prosecutors will be able to provide a service that more effectively addresses the needs of the victim without jeopardizing the requirements of an effective investigation and prosecution," says Calgary Police Chief Rick Hanson.
The Child Advocacy Centre will be located on the 4th floor of the Child Development Centre located on the campus of the University of Calgary at 3820 24thAvenue NW, across from the Alberta Children's Hospital.
It's funded by Calgary's corporate community, engaged citizens, the Government of Alberta, and the City of Calgary. The space, which is dedicated to child development initiatives, is hosted by the University of Calgary.
"This Centre is a powerful example of strong partnerships, willing hearts, and experts who will ensure abused children and their families receive the coordinated and comprehensive help they require," says Calgary and Area Child and Family Services, CEO, Bonnie Johnston.
The centre is designed for children 17 and younger and will house a compassionate team of front-line social workers, medical experts, therapists, and police officers who will provide support to children and their families who have experienced abuse, while improving communication and furthering justice when a crime has been committed.
For more information on the Centre, or to donate, go to www.calgarycac.ca.
