Corpus Christi Child Advocacy efforts face a major setback as the Children’s Advocacy Center of the Coastal Bend (CACCB) can no longer accept new clients in Nueces County. On April 29, a CACCB representative informed the Corpus Christi City Council of this development. The announcement followed an April 22 notice from the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Texas (CACTX), which stated it would remove Nueces County from CACCB’s designated service area—prompting the center to halt new client services in the region.
What Led to the Removal?
According to CACCB Board President Kristina Nelson, the removal stems from concerns first identified on September 24, 2024. Nelson didn’t specify the issue but said the center promptly launched an internal investigation and implemented corrective actions to address it.
Despite efforts, the Nueces County DA’s Office said on March 17 it wouldn’t accept CACCB interviews without full corrective measures. This move triggered CACTX’s decision to revoke Nueces County from the center’s service region.
Nelson told city officials the center remains committed to cooperating with the district attorney’s office to resolve the issue and rebuild trust.
A Temporary Solution While Families Wait
Corpus Christi Advocacy Center will continue serving existing clients in Nueces County, according to Executive Director Clarissa Mora, though it can no longer accept new cases. As part of its ongoing Corpus Christi Child Advocacy efforts, Mora said the center is coordinating with advocacy centers outside its service area to ensure new children and families receive prompt and effective support. Despite the challenge of losing Nueces County, she reaffirmed the center’s commitment to protecting children. She also noted that no further comments could be made until the ongoing review is complete.
Who Will Fill the Gap?
Meanwhile, the Corpus Christi Police Department stepped in to help maintain consistent care and support for vulnerable children in the area.
Assistant Chief Todd Green shared that CCPD is collaborating with the Nueces County District Attorney’s Office and CACTX. The temporary agreement allows CACTX to deliver the same critical services CACCB offered, including forensic interviews and family advocacy.
Green said this interim solution ensures children in need continue receiving services without disruption during the current transitional period.
The Impact on the Community
The Children’s Advocacy Center of the Coastal Bend serves 10 counties and assisted more than 1,000 children in 2024 alone. Of those, 525 children were from Nueces County, with most living in Corpus Christi. The change will, therefore, have a notable impact on families already facing difficult circumstances.
The district attorney’s office has not replied to requests for comment, leaving many in the community with lingering questions. At the same time, local and statewide partners are working to avoid service gaps for vulnerable children and their families.
Moving Forward with Hope and Determination
Despite challenges, CACCB, law enforcement, and community partners are actively resolving issues to protect children and restore stable support services.
As the situation unfolds, many remain hopeful that dialogue and accountability will restore partnerships and improve child services in Nueces County.