How We Help
What Is a Children’s Advocacy Center?Cherished Hearts Child Advocacy Center is a safe, child-focused nonprofit where children and vulnerable individuals can begin to heal after experiencing abuse or witnessing a crime. We follow the nationally recognized standards of the National Children’s Alliance, providing free, trauma-informed services to children in Jones County and surrounding communities.
Our clients are referred by law enforcement or child protective services when there’s concern that a child may have been the victim of abuse—or witnessed a crime. That’s when we step in.
Watch the Video below to learn more about what a CAC is.
More About Cherished Hearts
Cherished Hearts brings together a team of professionals—law enforcement, child protection workers, prosecutors, medical experts, and mental health providers—who meet regularly to collaborate on cases. This ensures that every child receives coordinated care and that their story is handled with consistency, dignity, and respect.
What Is a Children's Advocacy Center?
Cherished Hearts CAC provides coordinated, trauma-informed services to children and families navigating abuse investigations in Jones County — at no cost, ever.
Forensic Interviews
One voice. One time. One safe place.
At Cherished Hearts, every child speaks with a specially trained forensic interviewer in a calm, child-friendly environment. This interview is conducted in a neutral and developmentally appropriate way and is videotaped, so the child only has to share their story once—minimizing trauma and preventing repeated questioning.
This critical first step unlocks a full spectrum of care and support, tailored to the child and their non-offending caregivers.
Family Advocacy
Support that stays with you.
From the very first visit, a Family Advocate is there to help caregivers understand what’s happening, access resources, and feel supported—every step of the way. We guide families through investigations, court preparation, counseling referrals, and community connections.
Our advocates stay connected to families for as long as they need us—whether a case is closed, ongoing, or headed to trial.
Trauma-Informed Therapy
Healing is possible.
Our center offers access to trauma-focused mental health therapy for children who’ve experienced abuse or trauma. These sessions help young survivors develop healthy coping skills, rebuild trust, and find hope beyond their experience. All therapy referrals are made with care, and at no cost to the family.
Multidisciplinary Team
Collaboration that protects.
Cherished Hearts brings together a team of professionals—law enforcement, child protection workers, prosecutors, medical experts, and mental health providers—who meet regularly to collaborate on cases. This ensures that every child receives coordinated care and that their story is handled with consistency, dignity, and respect.
How It Works
Here’s how a child moves through care at Cherished Hearts — with safety, clarity, and support at every step.
Concern Reported
A report is made to law enforcement or Child Protective Services.
Referral to CAC
The child is referred to Cherished Hearts for services.
Forensic Interview
The child shares their story with a trained interviewer — only once.
Caregiver Support
Family Advocates connect caregivers to help and resources.
Team Coordination
Our multidisciplinary team meets to review the case and ensure safety.
Ongoing Healing
Therapy and advocacy continue as long as needed — always at no cost.