Children's Advocacy Center

At 14, Olivia was the kind of middle schooler who lit up every rehearsal room, humming show tunes and dreaming about the day she might finally land the lead in her school's musical. As an eight grader, this was supposed to be her year, but as auditions approached, Olivia found herself carrying a burden far heavier than stage fright. 

For nearly a year, Olivia had endured ongoing abuse and the hands of her uncle. Isolated by lies and paralyzed by the fear that no one would believe her, she withdrew from friends, stopped doing what she loved and slowly lost the joyful, confident voice that once defined her.

When her mother realized that Olivia hadn't attended the audition she'd looked forward to for years, she gently pressed the issue. Desperate for a way out, Olivia found the courage to speak up and after a report to local law enforcement, she was referred to the CARE House.

Here she was welcomed by compassionate professionals who listened, believed her, and helped her feel safe. Olivia received a trauma-informed forensic interview, a medical exam to ensure her wellbeing and evidence-based counseling to begin processing her trauma and rebuilding her confidence. Today, supported by her family, her counselor, and her advocate, Olivia is reclaiming her voice - steady, strong and unmistakably hers. 

Your Support Makes This Possible

Right now, children across the Pee Dee are carrying fear and silence they should never face alone. Your gift ensures they receive the safety, comfort and healing support they need in the moments they need it most. 

Your gift can:

• $125 - Provides comforting snacks & drinks during a child's visit

• $250 - Ensures a trauma-informed forensic interview for a child like Olivia

• $500 - Feeds McGuffy, our facility dog, for a year as he provides comfort in difficult moments

• Any amount - Brings hope and healing to a child who needs it now

Together, we can help every child reclaim their voice.