History

The first CAC was established in 1985 in Huntsville, Alabama. Almost 40 years later, CACs are regarded as the leading practice in responding to child abuse cases. There are more than 900 CACs in the United States and CACs are operating in more than 20 countries worldwide.

In some jurisdictions, the model of service delivery is referred to as a Child Advocacy Centre (CAC), while in other locations the terminology is a Child & Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC). For the purpose of this website, when referring to Canadian models, CYAC includes both terms.

CYACs in Canada

There has been a significant increase in the number of CYACs across Canada, with over 40 centres open and others in various stages of development. Beginning in 2010, the Policy Centre for Victims Issues, Department of Justice Canada has provided support and funding to create new CYACs in Canada, which are transforming the system.

Canada is a geographically large country with an ethnically diverse population that lives in large crowded cities, mid-sized towns and remote communities. Larger cities benefit from more substantial social infrastructure and available resources than smaller towns. A variety of CYAC models exist in Canada to meet the needs of different communities, including virtual models. The age range of children and youth served also varies depending on the centre.

All Canadian CYACs that are open and in various stages of development are listed on the homepage. The CYAC Networks are also profiled.