More than 3 million reports of child abuse are recorded in the United States every year. Victims of abuse may feel they have no way out. They might believe no one will help them. These young children can easily lose hope. But we can show them we care.
Celebrate A Day Of Hope
Wednesday, April 6 is a National Day of Hope. Adults are encouraged to think about how they can help prevent child abuse. Maybe it’s a donation. Maybe it’s spending time encouraging a stressed-out parent. Maybe it’s alerting the proper authorities when the signs of abuse are all-too clear.
On April 6 you can volunteer your time, attend a local event or simply lend your support.
Child Abuse Prevention Month
A Day of Hope is an important cause, but one day is not enough. To increase awareness, April is officially designated as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. President Jimmy Carter signed the legislation establishing this occasion, largely thanks to the efforts of two former actresses.
Sara O’Meara and Yvonne Fedderson met on the set of The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet. They’ve worked together ever since. A chance encounter with a group of abused children set them on an unexpected path. From that moment on they’ve dedicated their lives to helping young victims.
The two women formed Childhelp®, a “national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping victims of child abuse and neglect.” Their efforts have helped raise awareness and create new legislation with the goal of ending this heinous crime.
April is a time for individuals, businesses and lawmakers to focus on recognizing signs of child abuse and protecting young victims. These children cannot stand up for themselves. It’s up to us to help keep them safe.
Child Abuse Statistics
Childhelp® released some general statistics about abuse in the United States. The facts are terrifying:
• New reports of child abuse are made every ten seconds
• An average of five children die each day due to abuse and neglect
• 90% of young sexual abuse victims know their abuser
• Abused children are 59% more likely to be arrested as juveniles
• Approximately 30% of victims will become abusers
This cycle of abuse must end.
The first step to fighting child abuse is education. Childhelp® provides valuable information about abuse, what you can do if you were victimized, and what you should do if you know a child who is abused. To learn more, visit their Take Action page here.
Hope. Optimism. Faith. These are the positive feelings that get us through our worst days. We can all work together to help give kids everywhere a little more hope on April 6, throughout the month and all year long.
Please leave a comment if you would like to share your message of hope, and thank you for reading the PeopleFinders people search blog.