Abuse Center
We appreciate The Times and staff writer Carol McGraw giving exposure to Santa Monica Hospital’s new program at Stuart House (Metro, Oct. 28). I am concerned however, that the article leaves your readers with the impression that there are no other “one-stop centers” for child sexual abuse victims in Los Angeles County.
Harbor/UCLA Medical Center in Torrance is the location for the Los Angeles County Child Sexual Abuse Crisis Center. This center is jointly funded and staffed by three country departments: the Departments of Health, Mental Health and Children’s Services. Together, we provide one-stop assessment services for sexual abuse victims and their families. These victims are brought to the center by parents, caretakers, police or Children’s Services workers. Children receive both a medical examination and an interview conducted by experts. Parents and caretakers are also assessed.
Our comprehensive evaluations have been well-received by law enforcement agencies and the courts. Feedback from the children and parents we serve has been very positive. Not only are we a “one-stop center” for reducing trauma to children and families in crisis, but we also serve as an example of county inter-agency cooperation in responding to the community’s need.
COLLEN FRIEND
Director
Sexual Abuse Crisis Center
Los Angeles County
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