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Healing Begins At

The Bridge

Report AbuseGIVE

Ways to give

Your gift creates a healing path to justice for kids and prevents child abuse throughout the Texas Panhandle.

Education

Child abuse prevention education offered free of charge for students.

Training Schedule

Recognize, Respond and Report Training for professionals offered free of charge

About Child Abuse

The more you know, the better protected our children will be. Learn about the different types of child abuse.

What to expect at the Bridge

The Bridge is not a Law Enforcement or Child Protective Service agency. We are a nonprofit that works alongside law enforcement and CPS to provide a neutral, child friendly environment. The Bridge Children’s Advocacy Center staff are specially trained professionals who care deeply about every child who comes to the center. While you and your child are at The Bridge you will receive support and services that include:

  • Your child will be asked questions by a highly-trained forensic interviewer who specializes in asking neutral, non-leading questions. This interview, which will be recorded, reduces the negative impact of your child having to share his/her story multiple times.
  • If requested by investigators, specially trained nurses will complete a physical exam in a safe, child-friendly exam room.
  • Compassionate family advocates will help your family by providing information and referrals to community resources. Bridge family advocates will also assist with Crime Victims Compensation applications during your visit.
  • Every family who comes to The Bridge is offered referrals for specialized counselors for both your child and non-offending family members.
More About My Child's Appointment

Have a heart

Ways that donors helped Panhandle children and families in 2023-2024

2,857

Adults received child abuse awareness and prevention education.

1,829

Family Members received referrals and advocacy services.

6,082

Children received child abuse awareness and prevention education.

965

Forensic Interviews were conducted by The Bridge.

255

Forensic Medical Exams were conducted by The Bridge.

The Bridge

Children’s Advocacy Center

What is CAC?

CAC’s are dedicated to ensuring that child victims and their families receive vital services at no cost. Because CAC’s in Texas are required to be governed by a local, community-based 501(c)(3) organization, they rely heavily on private dollars raised through foundation grants, individual and corporate gifts, civic and community support organizations, and special event fundraising.

The CAC Model

Children’s advocacy centers (CACs) provide a safe, child-friendly environment where law enforcement, child protective services, prosecution, medical and mental health professionals may share information and develop effective, coordinated strategies sensitive to the needs of each unique case and child.