Where is the Child and Family Advocacy Center Located?
The Child and Family Advocacy Center (CFAC) is in Mankato, Minnesota. Our offices are located within the Mayo Clinic Eastridge building:
101 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Mankato, MN
 
How Much Do Services Cost?
The CFAC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. Our funding comes from grants and donations.
All services are completely free of charge—you will never receive a bill.
 
Is My Visit Confidential?
Conversations with our Child and Family Advocates are private and considered privileged.
However, we work closely with professionals like law enforcement, medical providers, and child protection to best support your child.
Interviews are recorded and may become part of a criminal investigation or public court record.
 
Will My Child Receive a Medical Exam?
Not on the same day as the interview.
If a medical exam is recommended, our team will:
  • Talk with you about it
  • Help schedule a free appointment
  • Connect you with specially trained pediatric doctors
Does CFAC Provide Mental Health Services?
While the CFAC does not provide mental health services directly, we partner with trusted community providers.
If needed, we will help you:
  • Find the right support
  • Take the next steps
  • Stay connected with resources
Will My Child Have to Return?
Usually, the interview is a single session.
In some cases, multi-session interviews may be beneficial. If so, the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) will let you know:
  • Before the first visit
  • Or on the day of the interview

How to Report Abuse

If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. Children and families affected by abuse need help—and your report could save a life. Sadly, many children die each year from abuse and neglect. In many cases, someone suspected abuse but did not report it. Speaking up can connect families to support and potentially save a life. This guide is specific to Minnesota. If you are in another state, please contact your local authorities.

Reporting Child Abuse or Neglect
If you are concerned about the safety or well-being of a child:
Call Child Protective Services.
They will notify law enforcement if necessary.
 
Reporting Vulnerable Adult Abuse
If you suspect abuse of a vulnerable adult:
Call the Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center (MAARC)
Phone: 1-844-880-1574
MAARC will forward your report to the appropriate agency.
 
Reporting to Law Enforcement
You can also contact your local police department.
Law enforcement will coordinate with protective services as needed.
 
Mandated Reporters
While anyone can report abuse, mandated reporters are required by law to do so.
Who Must Report?
  • Educators
  • Health care workers
  • Social workers
  • Law enforcement
  • Clergy
  • Licensed facility employees
Reporting Timeline:
  • Immediately: Make a verbal report
  • Within 72 hours: Submit a written report (for children/adolescents)
 
Information You May Be Asked For
  • Name, age, and address of the person at risk
  • Parent/caregiver’s name and address
  • Suspect’s name, age, and address
  • Your observations or concerns
  • Your relationship to the individuals
  • Any other helpful info
  • Your contact info (optional but helpful)
How to Respond When a Child Discloses Abuse
  • Write down the child’s exact words
  • Think about the child’s immediate safety
  • Respond with support:
    • “I believe you.”
    • “You’re not in trouble.”
    • “It’s not your fault.”
  • Stay calm and respectful
  • Do not ask for details
  • You are a reporter, not an investigator
  • You can remain anonymous but sharing your name may help the investigation. Your identity will not be disclosed to the alleged abuser.
What Not to Do When a Child Reports Abuse Do Not
  • Panic or overreact
  • Investigate or press for info
  • Use dolls, drawings, or tools to “learn more”
  • Ask the child to repeat their story
  • Share the story with people who do not need to know
  • Confront or question the child
  • Reinterpret what the child said
  • Make promises about what will happen next