St. Luke’s CARES (Children at Risk Evaluation Services) is dedicated to the belief that every child deserves to be safe, heard, and supported. When concerns for abuse or neglect arise, it is vital that children get the opportunity to talk about what may have happened to them and receive appropriate interventions, such as medical evaluation and treatment, counseling, and other community support services. Most children never report their abuse. Those who keep it a secret or who “tell” and are not believed, are at far greater risk than the general population for psychological, emotional, social, and physical problems, often lasting into adulthood.
Our staff is comprised of specially trained professionals, offering services in a child-centered, developmentally appropriate manner.
St. Luke's CARES serves children and families from throughout southern and central Idaho, eastern Oregon, and northern Nevada. Every year, more than 1,700 children are evaluated for alleged abuse at CARES clinics, which provide services in Boise in the Ada County Victim Services Center, at St. Luke's in Twin Falls, and at the Nampa Family Justice Center in Nampa.
Our specially trained team provides caring and comprehensive medical and forensic evaluation of a child’s injuries, thus minimizing the need for repeated exams and interviews.
We offer referrals to counselors and other community resources. Financial assistance for counseling may be available and staff will assist with the application for crime victim's compensation assistance.
We offer lectures and training for professionals and the public on child abuse and neglect issues.
Children are primarily referred to CARES by Child Protective Services (CPS), law enforcement agencies, and the court. Healthcare providers may refer to CARES after consulting with CARES medical staff. Referrals cannot be taken directly from parents, counselors, attorneys, or others. Such concerns will be directed to CPS or law enforcement agencies.
All adults will be asked to show photo identification. Alleged offenders are not allowed onsite at any time.
For registration, bring the child's insurance information and social security number. Upon registration, we will explain the appointment process.
Our interviewer will meet with your child one-on-one, in a developmentally appropriate manner, in a neutral setting, allowing the child to share their experiences.
Interviews will be recorded.
With you and your child’s permission, our medical provider will perform an evaluation to ensure the child's health and safety, reassure the child that their body is okay, and diagnose and treat any medical conditions related to the abuse.
A medical social worker or provider may also speak with the child about their emotional well-being.
Caregivers will meet with a medical social worker and medical provider to share family information, the child’s medical history, ask questions, and discuss concerns.
They may also meet with law enforcement and/or Health and Welfare staff.
Accreditation by the National Children's Alliance
CARES is an accredited member of the National Children's Alliance.
National Children’s Alliance (NCA) is a professional membership organization on a mission to make one big difference, one child at a time.
No child is ever refused access to the services of CARES, which is funded in large part by grants and donations. You can help ensure this vital community program will continue to be available to our children by giving a gift to support CARES through your local St. Luke’s Foundation.
As an adult in the state of Idaho, you are a mandated reporter for any suspected child abuse, neglect, or abandonment. Remember, you do not need proof, only concern.
To report suspected abuse, neglect, or abandonment when a child is not in immediate danger, please follow both steps below:
If you're experiencing thoughts of suicide, harm to yourself or others, or know someone that is, call or text the Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988. It's a confidential line, staffed 24/7, to provide crisis intervention, emotional support, problem-solving, and referrals to local resources for persons at risk for suicide and those concerned about them.
You can also be connected by dialing 211 and selecting option 2.
If you or someone you love is in immediate danger, call 911 or access the nearest emergency department.
