The Pocahontas County Commission approved funds on July 6 for the Child and Youth Advocacy Centerﾒs new Marlinton facility. CYAC co-director Monica Acord and VISTA volunteer Katherine Thompson attended a commission meeting during which they requested special funding for forensic interviewing equipment.

Acquiring the updated equipment is an integral step in setting up the CYACﾒs Marlinton office, which hosted its first forensic interview earlier this month.

"The CYAC has been working in Pocahontas County for four years,ﾔ Thompson stated, ﾓbut now that we have a functioning space in town, weﾒll undoubtedly be better able to serve the children of this area.ﾔ

Commission members agreed to match funds offered by Jerry Ramos, of ABCommunications, who installed the software.ﾠﾠ Acord expressed that ﾓthe CYAC Marlinton satellite office is now a reality thanks to the compassion and vision of the county commission and Mr. Ramos."

CYAC works to provide services for child victims of criminal abuse and neglect and their families. The CYAC offers a child-friendly facility where professionals conduct collaborative investigations and monitor case progress. The Center helps to ensure that children and families receive the treatment and support they need.

The Pocahontas County CYAC is now located at the Snowshoe Career Center in Marlinton. Contact Thompson at 304-799-2509 with questions or for volunteer opportunities.