5 days Ago
One in seven children will experience some form of abuse in their lifetime, according to national statistics. “Abuse affects children across all geographic, social, cultural, and economic boundaries,” according to a release from Oregon Child Abuse Solutions (OCAS). “Every child in Oregon deserves to feel safe, valued, and full of hope.
” Unfortunately for many, OCAS officials said the trauma of abuse — whether at home, in school, or within their community — shatters this sense of security. OCAS officials said they are at the forefront of ensuring every child has access to timely, high quality, and healing-centered care through a well-coordinated response to abuse. To address this critical issue, Oregon’s Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs) network is designed to provide critical leadership and services in communities across Oregon.
These centers offer safe, professional, and welcoming spaces where children can disclose their experiences and receive trauma-informed services designed to help them heal and thrive. With a presence in all 36 counties, OCAS supports Oregon’s 24 CACs by providing essential resources, training, and partnerships. According to the release, these centers collaborate with their local multidisciplinary teams (MDTs), which include law enforcement, child welfare professionals, prosecutors, medical providers, mental health experts, and others.
Children’s Advocacy Centers ensure children and families have access to the following critical services: • Medical evaluations • Forensic interviews • Trauma-focused therapy • Family advocacy • Prevention education As an accredited chapter of the National Children’s Alliance, OCAS ensures Oregon’s response to child abuse reflects the latest research, training, and best practices. This collaboration enables CACs to provide equitable care across urban, rural, and frontier communities while respecting local expertise and maintaining statewide standards of excellence. “Ending child abuse requires a united effort,” the release states.
“Parents, caregivers, educators, and all adults who interact with children play a crucial role in recognizing and reporting signs of abuse. OCAS, in partnership with local CACs, offers training and educational resources to empower individuals to protect vulnerable children.” “Every adult in Oregon has a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of our children,” Oregon Child Abuse Solutions Executive Director Shelly Smith said.
“Together, we can create a future where every child feels safe, valued, and full of hope.” If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, take immediate action: • Call 911 if someone is in immediate danger. • Report child abuse or neglect in Oregon by calling 855-503-SAFE (7233).
• Contact local law enforcement using the non-emergency line unless the situation is life-threatening, then call 911. Preventing child abuse starts with awareness and education. Learn the signs, attend a training, and speak up.
To locate a children’s advocacy center near you or explore available training opportunities, visit For information about child sexual abuse prevention resources, visit Protect Our Children. “By working together, we can strengthen Oregon’s response to child abuse and help every child feel safe, valued, and full of hope,” Smith said..
