HOW IT WORKS

Childhood exposure to traumatic events is linked to increased health risks later in life. Experiencing six or more traumatic experiences has been associated with a life expectancy up to 20 years shorter.

 

After first responders have been called to a home where children reside, The Adverse Childhood Experiences Response Team (ACERT) engages with families via calls and home visits so they can explain the referral process and help families sign release forms. This helps to ensure the children are offered supports and services toward healthy development to mitigate the impact of future trauma exposure and build protective factors.

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ACERT intervention is most often generated by reports in the following days after the event to ensure families have had the opportunity to work through their immediate needs.