Child Abuse
Introduction to the Children's Advocacy Center
The Patticake House Child’s Advocacy Center offers a variety of confidential professional services for suspected victims of Child abuse. Having been in operation since August of 2005, The Patticake House has interviewed thousands of children for different types of abuse to include child sexual abuse, child physical abuse, child emotional/psychological abuse, witness to domestic violence or other violent crime and/or witness to abuse. The Patticake House has also served all the non-offending caregivers who accompany the child to the forensic interview.
Our Current Services Include
- 24/7 Response to law enforcement and Department of Family Children Services
- Forensic Interview
- Forensic Medical Exam
- Non-Offending Caregiver Interview
- Assistance with Application for Victims Compensation Benefits
- Referrals for Mental Health, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Other Needed Services
- Information on Victims’ Rights, Local Resources, Healing, and What to Expect After Abuse
- Child Abuse Prevention Education and Outreach
Child Abuse Prevention Education and Outreach
Don’t “Weight” Go Ahead and Tell:
A program designed by PCH staff that can be adjusted for any child age group. It teaches safety and what to do when a child learns of abuse.
Darkness to Light: Stewards of Children
Child sexual abuse prevention training for adults (18 & up).
CSEC: Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children Training
Child sexual abuse prevention training for adults (18 & up).
Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) Approach
The Patticake House Team utilizes a Multidisciplinary Team Approach to include Law Enforcement, District Attorneys Office, Department of Family and Children Services, Mental Health Providers, Medical, School Social Workers, Health Department and Southwell Medical Staff, Department of Juvenile Justice, and CASA. This MDT approach ensures the child and non-offending caregiver’s needs are met and the Child Abuse Protocol is followed.
The Patticake House Staff includes three full time professionals led by CAC Manager and Senior Forensic Interview Melissa Wood, Program Assistant and Forensic Interviewer Wesley Chambless, and Family Advocate and Spanish Speaking Forensic Interviewer Jennifer Barnes.
About Us
Child Abuse Prevention Education and Outreach
Tifton Judicial Circuit Shelter Inc (dba Ruth’s Cottage & The Patticake House) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization established in 2002, is dedicated to ending domestic and sexual violence, as well as child abuse, through a comprehensive and collaborative approach. We provide vital services including domestic violence prevention, child advocacy, and sexual assault support, working tirelessly within our community to change attitudes and empower survivors.
About Ruth's Cottage & The Patticake House
History of Our Sexual Assault Program
Established in 2018
Established in January 2018, the Sexual Assault Advocacy Program at Ruth’s Cottage & The Patticake House was created to provide immediate and ongoing support for survivors. Staffed by a dedicated Program Manager and five Sexual Assault Advocates—one of whom is bilingual—the program operates a 24/7 hotline to ensure survivors have an advocate by their side within 30 minutes of contacting law enforcement or a hospital. From medical exams and legal proceedings to emotional support and resource referrals, this program is committed to walking each survivor through every step of the healing process.
Hosted a 'Walk a Mile' Event
Established locally in October 2010, Walk a Mile in Her Shoes has become an annual tradition that raises awareness about domestic and sexual violence by encouraging men to walk a symbolic mile in high-heeled shoes. This nationally recognized, trademarked event draws attention to how society’s patriarchal norms can enable gender‐based violence, while fostering solidarity with survivors. In 2023, ABAC hosted the 8th annual Walk a Mile, uniting students, community partners, and local organizations in a shared commitment to end violence and support survivors.
Community Outreach
Established in April 2021, the Extended Community Outreach initiative saw the launch of the “What You Were Wearing” exhibits across Southwest Georgia. By displaying everyday outfits on artfully decorated doors, these exhibits challenge the harmful myth that an assault can be blamed on someone’s clothing. Presented in Tifton, Ocilla, and Ashburn, each display features personal stories from survivors, underscoring that anyone can be affected and no one “asks for” violence. The exhibits serve as a powerful conversation starter, reminding the community that support is available and that survivors are never alone in their journey toward healing.
Our Sexual Assault Team
Alexis Mack
Sexual Assault Program Manager
Osiel Rodriguez
Bilingual Sexual Assault Advocate
Our Local 24/7 Hotline: 229-388-1541
Whether you have a question regarding our facility, or you need to call about a domestic violence crisis, sexual assault situation or confidential child abuse report, we are here for you!
01
Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-334-2836
02
Sexual Assault Hotline
1-800-656-4673
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Confidential Child Abuse Report