Childrens Justice & Advocacy Center - Cowlitz

CJAC's mission is to serve children and families affected by child abuse and to provide a collaborative and compassionate community response.

What we do

CJAC's mission is to serve children and families affected by child abuse and to provide a collaborative and compassionate community response.

If you think your child has been abused you may be confused about what to do next. You may have been instructed by law enforcement, Child Protective Services, or other trained professionals not to discuss the abuse with your child. Their concern is that the child’s statement may become confused being questioned repeatedly about a highly sensitive incident. This does not mean you cannot talk to your child about how they are feeling if they have concerns, problems, or questions. Answer these questions and concerns openly and honestly. The Family Advocate can help support you during this difficult time.

Youth Statistics

You probably feel that things are out of control and do not know what to expect. You are NOT alone.

600k | Children are abused yearly. Child abuse is a horrific experience with potentially lasting effects. It’s also, unfortunately, a common experience in America.

1,820 | In 2021, an estimated 1,820 children died from abuse and neglect in the United States.

15% | Youth and young adults ages 10–24 years account for 15% of all suicides.

69% | LGBTQ youth reported feeling persistently sad and hopeless.