The Blue Water Area Child Advocacy Center is located at 1107 Military, Port Huron, MI 48060. The telephone number is 810.966.9911. Office hours are 9-4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

OUR MISSION :

• The purpose of the Center is to provide a singular Forensic Interview for children who are alleged victims of sexual or severe physical abuse. It is a collaborative / multidisciplinary effort among the Department of Human Services, Law Enforcement agencies and the Office of the Prosecutor to facilitate communication and coordination for the professionals involved in the investigative process.

• The Child Advocacy Center is a child friendly environment that is designed to minimize the impact of the visit to the center. Decorated in muted colors, with child appropriate furniture, it is a comfortable and relaxed physical setting.

REFERRAL PROCESS:

• Referrals must be made by either the Department of Human Services or Law Enforcement agencies.

• Intake information will be requested for the BWACAC records. Our staff will coordinate with the appropriate parties to schedule the interviews.

• Case reviews will be held on a monthly basis as needed.

INTERVIEW PROCEDURES:

• We request that the investigative team arrive 20 minutes prior to the scheduled interview for pre-interview discussion.

• An observation room with audio capability is utilized for viewing interviews.

• Professionals are responsible for their own documentation of interview information.

• Post interview discussion will be held among the investigative team to determine a plan of action.

• The parent/guardian will be advised of the plan of action to be taken by the Department of Human Services/ Law Enforcement Agencies.

• Referrals sources for counseling or other needs will be provided to families by the BWCAC staff.

REFERRAL PROCEDURES:

• To schedule an interview, contact the BWCAC at 810.966.9911. Office hours are 9:00-4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Intake information will be taken for BWACAC records and scheduling.

• BWACAC staff will schedule the interview and contact the appropriate parties for their commitment to the scheduled interview time. Interviews will be scheduled based on the availability of the parties involved in the investigative process. Interviews will generally be scheduled Tuesday through Friday, as determined by need.

• The Child Advocacy Center offers privacy to families with an off-street entrance. The Center has two interview rooms, an observation room, family room, and space for professionals to meet or for their work use while on the premises.