SARAH’s House

Sexual Abuse Response And Help

A Child-Focused, Trauma-Informed Approach to Healing and Justice

In an ideal world, every child would grow up in a safe, loving environment. Unfortunately, child abuse occurs every day. Prior to the creation of child advocacy centers, children were often interviewed multiple times by different professionals—adding to their trauma.

SARAH’s House (Sexual Abuse Response And Help) is a Child Advocacy Center (CAC) that offers a different, more compassionate approach to investigating, treating, and responding to child abuse. Operated by Burlington United Methodist Family Services, SARAH’s House is both child-focused and child-friendly, working to reduce trauma while improving outcomes for children and families.

Program Overview 

How SARAH’s House Helps

SARAH’s House brings professionals together so children can receive coordinated, sensitive care in one place. This collaborative approach improves investigations, strengthens prosecution when appropriate, and ensures children receive the support they need.

Multi-Disciplinary Investigative Team (MDIT)

SARAH’s House coordinates a Multi-Disciplinary Investigative Team (MDIT) that meets monthly to review cases involving child abuse allegations. Members may include:

  • Mineral County Prosecuting Attorney
  • Law enforcement (state, county, and local)
  • Child Protective Services representatives
  • Mental health providers
  • Medical providers
  • SARAH’s House Child Advocacy Center staff

Together, the team coordinates efforts related to:

  • Child sexual assault
  • Child sexual abuse
  • Child abuse and neglect

SARAH’s House also supports the community by offering training, technical assistance, networking opportunities, and communication for community and civic organizations throughout Mineral County.

Program Services

Accreditation & Partnerships

SARAH’s House is:

  • Nationally accredited by the National Children’s Alliance
  • An active member of the West Virginia Child Advocacy Network

Accreditation ensures services meet national standards for excellence, safety, and child-centered care.

Therapeutic Services

SARAH’s House provides free mental health services to children through a licensed therapist trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).

Without effective intervention, children who experience trauma may face long-term emotional, social, and developmental challenges. Early, evidence-based therapy helps promote healing and resilience.

Location
SARAH’s House is located in Keyser, West Virginia, serving children and families throughout the surrounding community.

Medical Examinations

All children receiving services at SARAH’s House are assessed to determine whether a medical examination is needed.

  • Medical exams are provided at no cost to the child or family
  • Participation is not required, but strongly encouraged when deemed appropriate
  • Exams are conducted in a safe, supportive, child-centered manner
How You Can Help

Support Our Mission

When we work together, we can create safer environments and provide hope for children and families. SARAH’s House depends on tax-deductible donations to help ensure every child’s needs are met with care and compassion.

Donate Now

Get in Touch

Contact Information

For more information about SARAH’s House or available services, please contact:

Amber Talley
304-788-7720
atalley@bumfs.org