U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

Child sexual abuse

Zoe's Story: A Journey Through (and Beyond) the Legal System

Summary

Zoe’s Story shares the experiences of a young girl who was sex trafficked and presents in court as a defendant.

This graphic novel follows Zoe as she—

  • shares her story with a lawyer and social worker after she is arrested,
  • learns that someone she cared about was doing something illegal, and
  • engages with a survivor-led support group that offers...

Child Victims and Witnesses Support Materials

Introduction

Funding Available to Print Materials

Apply for up to $10,000 to print and disseminate copies of the resources in this series that best meet the needs of the children you support. The Center for Justice Innovation, Inc., through funding from OVC, is accepting applications through Tuesday, April 30, 2024.

Learn More and Apply Now

For children and youth, participating in the justice system as...

It's Not Just You

Summary

It’s Not Just You tells the story of two youth—Nishan and his family, when caseworkers visit their home; and Lila, when she is placed at her grandmother’s home by caseworkers after an incident.

To illustrate the common occurrences in child welfare cases, both stories showcase Nishan and Lila interacting with caseworkers, advocates, and counselors. Lila’s story also...

Brave Maya

Summary

Brave Maya tells the story of what happens to a little girl named Maya after caseworkers visit her home.

To illustrate the common occurrences in child welfare cases, the story follows Maya as she meets with caseworkers, goes to court and meets her advocate, engages with a counselor, and receives support from external family members.

Throughout the...

Project STRONG

2020-VO-GX-0208
Open
Funding First Awarded
2020
$436,804

Dghaznigi

2020-VO-GX-0205
Open
Funding First Awarded
2020
$450,000

Victim Impact: Listen and Learn (Child Sexual Abuse, Story 1)

December 2008

The video in this series (NCJ 223072) features the first-person account of Nia who shares her experience as victim of child sexual abuse and the ripple effect that victimization can have on family members and the community at large. A companion online only training curriculum is also available and includes a two part facilitator manual and a participant workbook.

Child and Youth Victimization

young child being comforted by three adults

Childhood exposure to violence, crime, and abuse can lead to serious consequences for the health and well-being of children that can last long into adulthood.

Understanding the nature and extent of a child’s exposure to violence is essential in combating its effects. Research shows that early identification, intervention, and continued follow up are valuable strategies for preventing and decreasing the potential negative effects of a...