Gulf Coast Advocacy Center Opens Marianna Facility, Expanding Services to Rural Families

By: Shelia Mader

After nearly a decade in the making, the Gulf Coast Children’s Advocacy Center officially opened its new Marianna facility Friday, marking a significant expansion of services for children and families affected by abuse across Jackson County and surrounding rural areas.

The approximately $2 million project brings critical resources closer to families who previously had to travel outside the county for care. The new building is dedicated to former CEO Lori Allen, whose leadership played a key role in bringing the Marianna location to fruition.

During the ribbon cutting ceremony, current CEO Brent Patrick emphasized the importance of accessibility in rural communities, noting the center’s mission to ensure that victims of abuse receive timely, coordinated support close to home.

The Gulf Coast Children’s Advocacy Center, established in 2000, serves as a refuge for victims of child abuse and sexual violence and their families, offering a coordinated, trauma-informed approach designed to reduce the stress often associated with investigations and recovery.

The Marianna site expands a network of services that includes forensic interviews, medical evaluations, therapy, and victim advocacy, all provided in a child-friendly environment. The organization works closely with law enforcement, the Department of Children and Families, and medical professionals to streamline investigations and minimize repeated trauma for young victims.

Among the core services offered:

Trauma-focused therapy for child and adolescent victims of abuse, as well as support for non-offending family members, provided at no cost through grants and community funding.

Victim and family advocacy, helping families navigate the legal system, access resources, and stabilize after crisis situations.

Child Protection Team services, including medical and psychosocial evaluations that support investigations and help determine appropriate interventions.

Crisis response and referrals, including assistance with housing, transportation, food, and other immediate needs.

The center also plays a broader role in prevention and education, working proactively within the community to reduce instances of abuse and strengthen families through outreach programs.

By bringing these services to Marianna, officials say the facility fills a longstanding gap in access for rural residents across Jackson, Holmes, Washington, Calhoun, and Gulf counties. Previously, many families had to travel significant distances to receive care.

Advocates say the new location will not only improve access but also help ensure earlier intervention, better outcomes for victims, and stronger support systems for families navigating difficult circumstances.

As the Marianna center begins operations, leaders expressed hope that the facility will serve as both a place of healing and a symbol of the community’s commitment to protecting its most vulnerable residents.