Child Abuse Intervention Department (CAID)

It’s not a scenario any parent wants to think about, but child abuse can happen to anyone. It can affect any family, and it’s more common than you might think. According to the national nonprofit, ChildHelp.org, there are more than 3 million reports of child abuse in the United States each year.

Mary Bridge Children’s Child Abuse Intervention Department (CAID) supports families when child abuse is suspected or discovered. We also offer community programs to strengthen families and empower people to prevent abuse. Learn more about our programs — all free of charge — below.

When child abuse is uncovered, it can be a highly stressful time. You may wonder where to turn and how best to intercede on your child’s behalf. We’re here to help you organize the right care and stand by your side as you face the journey ahead. We work in partnership with the Children’s Advocacy Center of Pierce County to provide several services:

• Medical treatment following sexual or physical assault
• Forensic exams
• Assistance navigating the legal system and accessing community resources
• Information and referrals for families

Bringing your baby home from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) can be both a joyful and anxious transition. Our Parenting Partnership program supports families with infants who have spent time in the NICU of MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital, for up to three years following discharge. Through regular home visits and group sessions, we can help you understand your baby’s unique needs and create a safe, responsive home environment.

We believe the community has an active role to play in preventing child abuse. Through partnerships with other organizations and programs, such as Darkness to Light and the Period of Purple Crying, we offer trainings to raise awareness about child abuse and teach parents and other caregivers how to protect children. We also conduct trainings for professionals and other community groups that serve children and youth.