To lessen the trauma, NEW HOPE is centered around the child. All persons needed to help him/her in this situation, comes to them in this home-like setting. This minimizes the trauma of having to go to the law enforcement offices, the doctor/hospital, and the office of the Child Protective Services worker. If the children come in hungry, we have a kitchen for preparing food and always keep juice boxes and snacks available. We have special ‘child friendly rooms’ available for interviews, emergency medical exams and counseling.
The non-offending family members are also helped here through advocacy information, education and support groups. The two story house has a welcoming waiting area at the front of the house. Inside, there is a very colorful playroom for the children to spend time.
The normal operating hours at Blount County Children’s Advocacy Center are Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm. But, whenever an emergency victim is in need, the center is opened for the needs of the child.
New Hope, Blount County Children’s Advocacy Center is an Accredited Member of the National Children’s Alliance. This was awarded to the center in May 2006.
http://www.tennessee.gov/tccy/
