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This investment will directly support victims of child abuse with continued access to critical services such as forensic interviews, trauma-focused therapy, medical evaluations and advocacy for children and families navigating the justice system.

“This landmark funding shows that Tennessee’s leaders are committed to standing with our most vulnerable children,” Stephen Woerner, Executive Director of Children’s Advocacy Centers of Tennessee said. “By prioritizing Children’s Advocacy Centers, the General Assembly is making an investment in hope, healing and justice for thousands of children in Tennessee.

“We are especially grateful to Senator Becky Massey and Representative Michele Carringer, as well as the members of the Senate and House Finance, Ways and Means Committee, Judiciary Committee and Children and Family Affairs Subcommittee for their leadership, advocacy and unwavering commitment to protecting children. Their efforts were instrumental in passing this bill and making this funding a reality.”

The 15th Judicial District Child Advocacy Center would like to extend special thanks to our local legislators who championed this bill and signed on as cosponsors: Senators Ferrel Haile, Mark Pody and Ken Yager; Representatives Clark Boyd, Michael Hale and Kelly Keisling. In April, communities across the state have been raising awareness about child abuse prevention.

The General Assembly’s action highlights the importance of investing in early intervention and coordinated services that protect children, hold offenders accountable, and strengthen families.

Children’s Advocacy Centers serve as a model of effective public-private partnerships, working closely with law enforcement, child protection, prosecutors, and mental health professionals to ensure that every child has a chance to heal and thrive.

“We are deeply grateful to every legislator who championed this funding, especially those who live in the communities our Center serves,” Heather Wamble, Executive Director for the 15th Judicial District Child Advocacy Center said. “Together, we are making Tennessee a safer, stronger place for children.”

About the 15th Judicial District Child Advocacy Center

Our mission is to reduce the trauma of child abuse and facilitate the healing process. We serve child victims of sexual and severe physical abuse from Wilson, Trousdale, Macon, Smith and Jackson counties in Tennessee. Our Center is a child-safe environment designed especially with the child and their family in mind. We provide children and their non-offending parent/caregiver with appropriate mental health, medical and other resources in our district.

Our compassionate and skilled team is committed to providing the support and care that young victims of abuse and their families/caregivers need to begin their journey toward healing. We are a 501©3 non-profit governed by a diverse Board of Directors.

For more information about 15th Judicial District Child Advocacy Center and how you can help prevent child abuse, visit .

About The Savannah Grace Copeland Act

This bill is named in honor of Savannah Grace Copeland, a middle school student from Knox County who was tragically killed by another student. That student had a history of experiencing neglect, highlighting the broader issue of child-on-child violence as a serious concern alongside adult-on-child abuse.

The bill reflects a legislative commitment to strengthening early intervention efforts in cases of child abuse and neglect. It emphasizes the role of Child Advocacy Centers in identifying, interrupting, and addressing patterns of abuse and neglect, with the goal of preventing future tragedies similar to Savannah’s.