McDowell County Children’s Advocacy Center Faces Funding Crisis After 15 Years of Service

Fifteen years ago, the McDowell County Children’s Advocacy Center was established to make the process of reporting child abuse less traumatic for children. Previously, children had to recount their experiences multiple times to different investigators and sometimes testify in court, which often led to retractions due to fear and stress.

Now, children share their stories just once with a trained forensic interviewer at the center, while law enforcement and social workers observe from another room. The interviews are recorded and often used in court, reducing the need for children to testify.

The center’s collaborative, trauma-informed approach includes regular case reviews, comprehensive medical exams, and mental health treatment, including trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. A family advocate also helps connect families to the resources they need.

Despite its success and impact, the center is facing financial challenges due to significant federal funding cuts, particularly from the Victims of Crime Act Fund. Although state support and grant-writing efforts continue, Executive Director Chris Jernigan says more funding is needed to sustain the center’s services.

Thank you to The McDowell News for covering this story. Your tax-deductible contribution can help us offset funding cuts and continue serving child victims of crime in McDowell County and across North Carolina.