St. Luke’s CARES is dedicated to the belief that every child deserves to be safe, and to be heard.
Every year, more than 1,700 children are evaluated for alleged abuse at our offices in Boise, Twin Falls, and Nampa, and at our Foster Care Clinic, where children coming into foster care receive a complete medical evaluation.
Prevention is also vital to the CARES mission, with resources and referrals for parents, a database for research, legislative input for prevention and treatment of child abuse, and lectures and training for professionals and the public on issues of child abuse and neglect.
St. Luke’s CARES is a neutral, child-friendly facility where children can feel safe and comfortable, and be heard. We provide children and their families an opportunity to understand their trauma and begin the process of healing in a warm and accepting environment. We treat children in an age-sensitive manner to reduce further emotional trauma.
Our team provides:
It is vital that children tell their story, and that they are believed. 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.
CARES is an accredited member of the National Children's Alliance.
Children are primarily referred to CARES by child protective services, 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 Child Protective Services or law enforcement agencies.
Idaho State Law requires all citizens to report suspected child abuse and neglect. Usually the report is made to the police or to child welfare or child protection agencies. To report child abuse in Idaho, call 1-855-552-KIDS (5437).
Boise: (208) 577-4460
Fax: (208) 577-4469
Twin Falls: (208) 814-7750
Fax: (208) 814-7759
St. Luke’s CARES serves children and families from throughout southern and central Idaho, eastern Oregon, and northern Nevada from our clinics in Boise and Twin Falls, where most interviews and examinations are conducted.
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.