The Bridge provides services to the top 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle.
No, according to the confrontation clause in the U.S. Constitution, it is the defendant’s right to be able to cross-examine their accuser. The videotape serves two purposes by (1) eliminating the need for the child to be interviewed multiple times by investigative agencies (2) the videotape can be used in trial in addition to the child testifying, often times, lessening the amount of time the child is on the stand.
Children are referred through either Child Protective Services or Law Enforcement. Direct appointments can not be accepted.
On average the bridge will see 4-5 children in a day. During the summer months, this increases to 6-8 children in a day.
The most common ages we see are ages 4-6.
Children and families must be referred by Children’s Protective Services or Law Enforcement. These are the agencies responsible for investigating reports, and in order to ensure a coordinated investigation, they must be present for the interview and coordinate the appointments.
Only investigators or Bridge staff may observe the interviews.
There is no cost for any of our services.
Only the interviewer and the child are in the room during the interview, unless an interpreter is needed. If an interpreter is needed then The Bridge will contact the appropriate agency to set up a neutral interpreter.
Victims or witnesses of Sexual Abuse (approximately 80%)
Victims or witnesses of Physical Abuse
Witness to Homicide
Witness to Domestic Violence
Witness to Drug Use
Any other type witness or if child was victim of crime
33% of our funding through United Way (Amarillo/ Canyon, Hutchinson County, Hereford, Pampa, Moore County, Ochiltree County, and Dallam County).
16% funding through government grants (VOCA, VAWA, and OVAG).
16% from the state organization of Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACTX).
Private and corporate donations.
Fundraisers: 3rd party, To Die For Murder Mystery in April (agency sponsored), United Way Car Raffle Ticket sales.
