Additional Family Resources

Additional Resources and Support For Children and Their Families

The Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) provides free services for families navigating the trauma of child sexual abuse, child physical abuse, child human trafficking, child sexual abuse material (child pornography), or child witness to violence. Families can choose whether to engage in all or just some of the services, for as long as they are requested. Explore all of your available resources by getting a better understanding of our advocacy center services and review the directory of support for families below.

If your family is scheduled for an appointment learn what to expect with our appointment guide. Our goal is for you and the child in your care to be completely prepared, informed, and comfortable with the process.

Be Sure to Review a Few Local Resources

Portage County Resource Guide, Portage County Job & Family Services

Resources in Portage County—from addiction recovery services to counseling centers, education resources, clothing centers, and more.

Transitional Youth Housing Resources

A directory of housing, shelter, and supportive services that connects transitional youth experiencing homelessness with resources available throughout Portage County, Summit County, and Cuyahoga County.

Portage County Health District’s Food Resources Dashboard

Food resource dashboard—an interactive map that helps residents quickly find local food pantries, meal sites, farmers markets, and other food assistance resources in Portage County.

Boys Town National Hotline

Toll-free 24-hour hotline for children and parents who need support in the areas of abuse, drugs, parenting, family relationships, suicide, and running away.

Books for Children & Teens About Development

Book recommendations for parents to discuss related sensitive topics with children.

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) Caregiver Support

Information, guidance, and support resources to help caregivers understand and respond to child sexual abuse.

National Center on the Sexual Behavior of Youth

Provides tools for caregivers to help them support children who have been victims of sexual abuse.

Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Resources and tools for caregivers to help prevent substance use and support healthy choices in children and teens.

The Polaris Project

National human trafficking hotline, data and research, and referral directory.

The Medical Exam in Child Sexual Abuse Cases

A brief guide for families explaining what to expect during a child sexual abuse medical exam and how it supports a child’s health, safety, and healing.

CDC Fact Sheets

Informational resources on various sexually transmitted infections and diseases.

Child Sexual Abuse Material Resources

Resources and information to help individuals and families understand, prevent, and report Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).

Sextortion Resources

Information and resources to help understand, prevent, and respond to sextortion.

Understanding Child Sexual Abuse Material

Learn the basics of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), including what it is, key statistics, and why protecting children starts with awareness.

Sexual Exploitation Prevention & Recovery Resources

Resources to help individuals and families understand, prevent, and heal from sexual abuse, sex trafficking, child sexual abuse material, and related issues.

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children

Find resources and information on child sex trafficking, CSAM, sextortion, and other forms of exploitation.

Women’s Health

Information and support to promote healthy, positive behaviors in women and girls.

Teen Source

Education and support to help teens build healthy relationships and make informed choices.

Men’s Health

Education and support to encourage healthy choices and positive behaviors in men and boys.

Do You Need Any Additional Resources You Can’t Find?

At the Children’s Advocacy Center, we provide support for families navigating the trauma of child sexual abuse, child physical abuse, child human trafficking, child sexual abuse material (child pornography), or child witness to violence to help them grow beyond what brought them to the center. Whether it be utility assistance or food insecurity assistance, therapy, or transportation support to attend appointments, we have the resources to help. Our team is here to provide the help your family needs to move forward. If you need additional resources, we have a network to help.

Have any questions about the Children’s Advocacy Center—and the resources we offer? For more information, please reach out to our team.