“Children’s Advocacy Centers do the critical work of helping children with a comprehensive response to child abuse,” said Rep. Tony McCombie in explaining the reason she decided to help gather supplies needed by these non-profit organizations in our region.
The mission of children’s advocacy centers in Illinois is to respond when there is an allegation of child sexual abuse or severe physical abuse. When that happens, children are referred to a local Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC). There, an interview is conducted in a child-friendly environment by a trained professional who knows the right questions to ask in a way that does not re-traumatize the child. Members of the multidisciplinary team (medical and mental professionals, law enforcement, prosecution, child protective services and more) observe. Following the interview, the child, as well as family members, receive advocacy, medical and mental health referrals to help with the healing process.
“Often, members of our community have no reason to know about the work of our children’s advocacy centers, but the work they do is critical when responding to children who have been abused. When I asked these organizations if they had needs for donations of supplies to do their important work, they sent over lists which my staff compiled into a universal wishlist to allow community members to help out,” said McCombie in describing the wishlists available at her website at repmccombie.com/supply-drive-wishlists/
“Our region is generous, and this is such an important cause, especially during the holiday season. These organizations work with children when children need community support the most. They thoughtfully and professionally advocate for those victimized. Now, the children’s advocacy centers can use our support to help them in their important work. I know our region will step up to the cause,” said Rep. McCombie.
Supplies purchased in-person locally or purchased online may be delivered to State Representative Tony McCombie’s Office at 2510 Locust St #A, Sterling, IL 61081. Rep. McCombie will then deliver those supplies based on their requests to Children’s Advocacy Centers serving Rock Island, Henry, Carroll, Jo Daviess, and Whiteside Counties in early December.