Child Abuse in Texas
- Today, 185 Texas children will be victims of abuse.
- In one year, more than 65,000 cases of child abuse were confirmed in Texas.
- 1 in 4 Girls is sexually abused before her 18th birthday.
- 1 in 6 boys is sexually abused before his 18th birthday.
Our Impact
A children’s advocacy center is the ONE non-profit to serve as the first stop for children entering the justice system because of suspected sexual abuse, severe physical abuse, and those who have witnessed a violent crime. Last year, more than 43,000 children received critical services at a Texas children’s advocacy center.
The network of 70 Texas CACs now officially serves 194 counties where 97% of the Texas population resides. Each year, courtesy services are provided to children in all remaining Texas counties, 33 states and one country.
Of the total number of children served by a CAC last year:
- 71% were involved in sexual abuse cases
- 95% knew their perpetrator
- 25% were not old enough to attend kindergarten
How to Help
Child sexual abuse is a crime of secrecy which, tragically, breeds within our communities because it’s difficult to talk about. That’s why conversation—openly discussing this issue—is the most effective tool we have to eradicate child abuse.
Adults must be courageous to discuss this issue openly. You can be One With Courage simply by pushing discomfort and fear aside to talk openly about this issue, to start a dialogue about it, and to combat the secrecy that enables child abuse. You can be the One With Courage to inspire others to talk openly about it. We believe that the eradication of child abuse begins with building informed, empowered communities with the courage to talk openly about child abuse.
Local Centers
Children’s advocacy centers (CACs) provide a safe, child-friendly environment where law enforcement, child protective services, prosecution, medical and mental health professionals may share information and develop effective, coordinated strategies sensitive to the needs of each unique case and child.
Learn How We Help
Report Suspected Abuse
Call 1-800-252-5400 or 9-1-1
www.txabusehotline.org
Careers
Children’s Advocacy Centers of Texas is an equal opportunity employer that offers its staff an atmosphere of professionalism, dedication, respect and competitive employee benefits. Starting out with a single staff position in 1995, CACTX now employs a staff of more than 20 passionate, talented professionals.
View open jobs »Signs of Child Abuse
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1Unexplained injuries
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2Changes in emotional behavior
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3Returning to less mature/younger behaviors
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4Fear of going home
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5Changes in eating
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6Changes to sleep patterns
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7Changes in school performance or attendance
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8Lack of personal care in hygiene
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9Risk-taking behaviors
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10Inappropriate sexual behaviors
