History

From the start, the Centre’s goal has been to create a child-focused, child-friendly environment where sexually and physically abused children receive the caring and timely response they deserve.

Bringing the Child Advocacy Centre to Niagara was a community-driven initiative that began in 1998.  Strong support from Niagara leaders and fundraising volunteers raised $750,000 from Niagara communities participating in our first capital campaign.  Our building on 8 Forster Street in St. Catharines was purchased and renovated to meet the specific needs of our organization. Operations began there in September 2008 and we are proud that it is the first dedicated facility of its kind in Canada.

Modeled after more than 900 similar centres located throughout the United States, Child Advocacy Centre Niagara represents a cooperative effort among child protective agencies that makes abused children’s lives significantly easier.

Before the CACN’s existence, children were required to relive the details of their abuse repeatedly, through interviews that could involve child protection workers, police officers, medical and mental health professionals, prosecutors and others. The trauma of visiting different professional offices and people created a lasting, negative impact. Thanks to Child Advocacy Centre Niagara, a friendly, caring team of professionals is able to work together in one place to serve the best interests of the child.