Hoops Family Children’s Hospital Child Advocacy Center opens in new designated space

Angela Seay, left, coordinator of the CAC, gives a tour of the medical room in the new location.

To best serve children and families healing from child abuse and neglect, the Child Advocacy Center (CAC) at Marshall Health Network - Hoops Family Children’s Hospital (HFCH) has a new location on the campus of Cabell Huntington Hospital. 

Now located behind the Emergency Department beneath the helipad, the new CAC location offers a more private, secure and supportive setting for children and families. The new space features child-friendly interview and exam rooms where specially trained forensic interviewers and medical providers work together to assess children who may have experienced abuse or neglect. These interviews can be recorded, allowing children to share their story once in a safe environment—helping reduce the need for repeated questioning and minimizing additional trauma. 

Following the evaluation, families are connected to a coordinated range of services, including medical care, counseling, victim advocacy and courtroom preparation. These services are provided at no cost, ensuring families can focus on healing and support. 

“As the only hospital-based CAC in the area, it was important that we provide greater privacy and comfort for our families while also maintaining the close access to the specialized care and support available through Hoops Family Children’s Hospital,” said Angela Seay, BA, MS, LSW, coordinator of the CAC. “This new location strengthens our ability to offer compassionate, coordinated services in an environment designed with healing and hope in mind.” 

In 2025, the CAC served 313 children from Cabell and Wayne counties in West Virginia who were victims of alleged sexual or physical child abuse or neglect. 

“At Hoops Family Children’s Hospital, we are committed to caring for the whole child and supporting families through every step of their journey,” said Melanie Akers, DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, vice president of Women’s and Children’s Services, Marshall Health Network. “This new space will enhance the important work being done at the CAC by not only our CAC team but also the multidisciplinary investigative teams that collaborate with them for each county we serve.” 

The new space was unveiled Wednesday, April 22, at an open house with community partners. Photos from the event are available at jcesom.smugmug.com/Events/2026-Events/Child-Advocacy-Center-Open-House. 

The relocation was made possible by donations from the ENCOVA Foundation of West Virginia and River Cities Subaru. 

Those in need of services at the CAC or with questions may call 304-526-2349. Referrals for additional services will be made as needed.