Barbara Sinatra Children's Center Launches New Forensic Medical Wing for Child Abuse Survivors

Expanding Support for Child Abuse Survivors at the Barbara Sinatra Children's Center

The Barbara Sinatra Children's Center (BSCC) has set an important milestone in its mission to support vulnerable children. Recently, the Center broke ground on a new wing designed specifically to enhance forensic medical services available to survivors of abuse. Located in Rancho Mirage, California, this expansion is a significant part of the Pavilion for Child and Adolescent Health initiative, aimed at providing essential medical care to individuals aged 18 and under. Completion of this project is anticipated by early 2026.

The new facility is part of the Center's ambitious $10 million "Passion to Prevent" campaign, which is currently 70% towards its fundraising goal and is now entering the public phase. The project has garnered notable financial support, including a generous $500,000 grant from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians (SMBMI), which will help expand the forensic medical capacity of the Center with the assistance of Loma Linda University Children's Hospital personnel.

Enhancing Forensic Medical Support

The newly constructed wing will feature three dedicated examination rooms, crucial for conducting forensic medical exams for children and adolescents suspected of experiencing physical or sexual abuse. It will also facilitate follow-up medical assessments for abuse survivors and mandated medical exams for children in foster care. The funding from the grant will enable the recruitment of additional pediatricians, nurse practitioners, and pediatric fellows from Loma Linda University Children's Hospital, enhancing the capacity to serve both local and regional youth in need of these vital services.

John Thoresen, Director and CEO of the Barbara Sinatra Children's Center, expressed gratitude for the partnership with the SMBMI and Loma Linda University, emphasizing the Center’s commitment to providing high-quality forensic services. "We are dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of children around the world, and providing proper forensic services is a crucial part of that mission," he stated. This sentiment was echoed by Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the SMBMI, who remarked on the importance of ensuring access to essential services that contribute to building safe and resilient communities for children.

A Focus on Comprehensive Care

The Pavilion for Child and Adolescent Health aims not only to provide forensic medical examinations but also to create a supportive environment where children can receive holistic care. The integration of medical staff and services from the Riverside County Coalition to End Human Trafficking reflects a multi-faceted approach towards addressing the complex needs of abuse survivors in the Coachella Valley.

The commitment made by Loma Linda University Children's Hospital to deliver specialized pediatric services aligns with the BSCC's goal to extend care into communities that need it most. Dr. Amy Young, a representative from Loma Linda University, expressed excitement about this collaboration, highlighting that the pediatric team is poised to provide essential care for the young patients who will be served in this new wing.

A Legacy of Compassion

Founded in 1986 by Barbara and Frank Sinatra, the Barbara Sinatra Children's Center stands as a testament to their dedication to ensuring every child's right to a healthy, safe childhood. Since its establishment, the Center has offered a wide range of services, including outpatient mental health support and counseling to over 25,000 children. Each year, approximately 1,200 children benefit from counseling and forensic services without facing barriers related to their family's financial situation.

In addition to direct services, the Center has a far-reaching global impact, including educational initiatives aimed at preventing child abuse. Their animated video series has reached an audience of over 400 million worldwide. As the BSCC moves forward with this expansion, it is not just improving local services but also reinforcing a legacy dedicated to the protection and empowerment of children everywhere.

For those interested in supporting this crucial initiative, more details and ways to contribute can be found by visiting BarbaraSinatraChildrensCenter.org.