We Hear You, We Believe You

WE CARE

We Believe Kids Should Only
Have to Tell Their Story Once!

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No Judgement

Feel free to share your story without fear or criticism or condemnation.

No Pressure

Take your time to open up and share at your own pace; there’s no rush.

No Shame

Your experiences are valid, and seeking  help is a brave step.

Always Heard. Always Believed.

We are the only Child/Youth Advocacy Centre in Windsor and Essex County and a trusted ally for children, youth, and families in need of support and advocacy.
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How We Help

We understand the immense courage it takes for children and youth to disclose abuse. Prior to the establishment of the Windsor Essex Child/Youth Advocacy Centre children and youth often had to recount their experiences in various locations across the community, encountering different professionals at each step which increased stress and anxiety for the child/youth. Our goal is simple: to reduce the number of times a child must repeat their story. We believe kids should only have to tell their story once.

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WHO WE SERVE

Children/ Youth (0-18)

  • Are you are being harmed by another person? Do you feel unsafe or uncomfortable by the behaviour of another person?
  • Is there a safe adult you can talk to? A safe adult will be able to help you get help. Remember, they are there to help you.
  • We want you to know that we are here to help.
  • Call your local Police Department or Children’s Aid Society. We can also help you make that call.
  • If you are in imminent danger call 911.
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WHO WE SERVE

Parents & Caregivers

  • Do you have concerns or suspicions about the safety of your child/youth or a child/youth you know?

  • Has your child/youth or a child/youth you know disclosed that they are being harmed?
  • If you suspect abuse immediately call your local law enforcement or the Children’s Aid Society. Remember, you do not have to have proof to report suspected child abuse. It is everyone’s job to keep children/youth safe in the community, and all suspicions or concerns must be reported.
  • If a child you know is in imminent danger call 911.
  • Children are our future, and together, we can all keep children safe.
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RESOURCES FOR CAREGIVERS
How To Respond

WHO WE SERVE

Community

  • Has a child/youth disclosed to you that they are being abused or harmed in any way?
  • Do you have reasonable grounds to suspect that a child/youth is being harmed?
  • Are you unsure how to help a child, youth or family in need?
  • If you suspect abuse, immediately call your local Police Department or Children’s Aid Society. Remember, you do not have to have proof to report suspected child abuse. It is everyone’s job to keep children and youth safe in the community, and all suspicions or concerns must be reported.
  • o If a child you know is in imminent danger call 911.
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How To Respond

WHO WE SERVE

Windsor-Essex Region

Our Process

Our process is carefully designed to ensure that every child and youth seeking help receives the support and protection they deserve. Here’s what to expect.

Getting Help:

If you’ve experienced abuse, violence, or are a victim or witness of crime and you’re unsure about talking to the police, reach out to someone you trust, like a family member, teacher, a safe adult or WECYAC. They can help by talking to the police on your behalf.

What Happens Next:

After the Police have been notified and an investigation has begun, someone from WECYAC will reach out to your caregiver to plan your visit to the Centre. They’ll explain everything that’ll happen during your visit, so you’ll feel more prepared. You may also need to have a medical exam done at Windsor Regional Hospital.

Arriving at WECYAC:

When you arrive, an Advocate will give you and your caregiver a tour of the Centre and provide snacks and toys or books to help you relax. An Advocate will also introduce you and your caregiver to the Police Officer and Child Protection Worker.

Talking to Police:

This is your time to share your story. You’ll talk to a specially trained police officer who will ask questions in a way that respects your privacy and comfort. Your caregiver will be in the waiting room talking with an Advocate. You can take breaks or see your caregiver anytime during the interview.

Support All the Way:

From the initial call to schedule your visit at the Centre, you and your family will have someone to walk with you through the entire process. This person is known as your Advocate. Your advocate is there to guide you through the whole process. They’ll explain things, offer emotional support, and make sure you and your family are okay.

Finding Help Outside:

Your advocate will also help you find other services, like counseling and medical care that you might need. They will also check in with you regularly to update you on what’s happening, what to expect next and see how you and your family are doing.

Speaking Up:

Throughout everything, your advocate will make sure your voice is heard and that you’re getting the help and support you need.

It Can Be Anyone.
It’s Everyone’s Responsibility.

  • The average age of children/youth interviewed at WECYAC is 12 years old. The youngest child to be interviewed at WECYAC is 3 years old.
  • From 2019 to 2024, 1099 investigations were conducted at WECYAC resulting in 1230 criminal charges being laid.
  • WECYAC has served 2918 victims and their non-offending caregivers/family members in the same 5-year period.
  • 93% of alleged perpetrators are known to the child/youth victim.
  • 60% of children/youth who are interviewed at WECYAC identify as female.
  • 53% of interviews completed at WECYAC involve sexual abuse/assault.
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What Our Clients are Saying