Rockwall County, TX (March 19, 2026) – Every child deserves to grow up safe, supported, and free from harm. Yet the reality is stark: 1 in 7 children experience abuse or neglect each year (Centers for Disease Control). It’s a statistic that feels distant—until we remember it includes children right here in Rockwall County.
As our population grows, so does the need for specialized services. For families facing the unimaginable, the Children’s Advocacy Center for Rockwall County (CACRC) is the one place uniquely equipped to respond. As the only organization in the county providing these critical services—and one that holds both state and national accreditation—the CACRC stands on the front lines of child protection and healing.
“When a child finds the courage to share what’s happened to them, their entire world changes. At CACRC, we step in at that very moment—with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to ensuring no child walks that road alone.” ~Patricia Mejia, President & CEO-CACRC
Where Hope Meets Healing
Life after the disclosure of abuse is overwhelming and often challenging for families. Children can feel confused, afraid, or unsure of how to navigate what comes next. At the CACRC, children are never expected to face that uncertainty alone.
Through trauma‑informed care delivered by a team of highly trained professionals, the CACRC creates a safe, child-centered space for every child who walks through its doors. Here, they are seen, heard, believed, and empowered. Each service—from forensic interviews to family advocacy to therapy—is designed to meet children exactly where they are, helping them reclaim hope after trauma.
Power in Prevention
While healing is essential, the CACRC believes prevention is equally powerful.
For the past three years, the center’s Training & Prevention Team has delivered engaging, age-appropriate safety lessons to students in Rockwall ISD and Royse City ISD. These lessons teach practical and relatable skills like:
- Recognizing unsafe situations
- Identifying trusted adults
- Speaking up when something feels wrong
- Navigating bullying, boundary violations, and online dangers
Using Child Safety Matters and Teen Safety Matters, evidence-informed curriculum developed by the Monique Burr Foundation for Children, these programs focus on empowerment—not fear. Children learn how to protect themselves and others in a way that builds confidence and resilience.
And prevention doesn’t stop with kids. The CACRC provides training for adults across the community—from places of worship and daycares to youth organizations and local businesses. Topics include Child Sexual Abuse Prevention, Recognizing & Reporting Child Abuse, Online Safety, and CAC 101 (an introductory seminar that explains the CAC model and the first step in becoming a volunteer).
Every trained child, parent, teacher, or volunteer strengthens the safety net around Rockwall County’s most vulnerable citizens.
A Community Response—Together
The CACRC’s approach is deeply collaborative. Their multidisciplinary team includes:
- Law Enforcement
- Child Protective Services
- Medical Professionals
- Mental Health Experts
- Victim Advocates
- CACRC’s Specialized Staff
This coordinated model ensures children and families receive comprehensive, seamless care during what may be the most difficult period of their lives.
The journey often begins with a single critical step: someone making a report.
Many reports come from adults who simply noticed something concerning—a teacher, coach, neighbor, or family friend. In Texas, all adults are legally required to report suspected abuse. That means anyone 18 or older can be the difference between a child victim and a child survivor.
The Child Abuse Hotline is available 24/7 at 800‑252‑5400.
Standing Together This April—and All Year Long
Child Abuse Awareness & Prevention Month is more than a moment on the calendar. It is a reminder that protecting children is a shared responsibility—and one our community approaches with strength and compassion. The CACRC is proud to stand alongside local schools, youth-serving organizations, daycares, faith communities, and countless individuals committed to safeguarding children.
At the CACRC, every child’s story matters. Every voice matters. And every step they take toward healing is supported by a community that believes in them.
2026 Child Abuse Prevention Month Proclamations
Rockwall County and cities within the county proclaim April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, demonstrating that our community values prevention and prioritizes safe and happy childhoods. Attend an upcoming proclamation and stand against child abuse with us.
- March 31 Rockwall County Event, 101 E. Rusk St., Rockwall, 5:30 p.m.
- April 6 Rockwall City Hall, 385 S. Goliad St., 5:30 p.m.
- April 6 Fate City Hall, 1900 CD Boren Pkwy, 6 p.m.
- April 7 Rowlett Council Chambers, 4000 Main St., Rowlett, 7 p.m.
- April 14 Rockwall County Commissioners Court, Rockwall Historic Courthouse 3rd floor, 101 E. Rusk, 9 a.m.
- April 14 Wylie Council Chambers, 300 Country Club Road, Building 100, Wylie, 6 p.m.
- April 14 Heath City Hall, 200 Laurence Drive, 6:30 p.m.
- April 14 McLendon-Chisholm City Hall, 1371 W. FM 550, McLendon-Chisholm, 6:30 p.m.
- April 14 Royse City Police & Courts Building, 100 W. Main St., Royse City, 7 p.m.
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