1} REPORT:
suspected abuse
or neglect.Inform authorities if you suspect that children are being harmed.
Your concern may mean that children are protected from an abusive environment.
2} ADVOCATE:
for services
to help families. Communities need comprehensive service that address issues
that affect families. Parenting programs, health care, and housing needs
are vital to maintaining healthy children and families.
3} VOLUNTEER:
at a local
child abuse program. Parent support groups, crisis centers, and hotlines
are typical programs that often welcome volunteers. Check you telephone
directory for
the names of agencies in yourarea.
4} HELP A
FRIEND, NEIGHBOR OR RELATIVE:
someone you
know may be struggling with parenting responsibility. Offer a sympathetic
ear or a helping
hand. Assisting occasionally with childcare or offering local sources of
community help can be a tremendous boost to someone under stress.
5} HELP YOURSELF:
recognize the
signs that indicate outside help is needed. If you feel overwhelmed, constantly
sad, angry and out of control, get help. Remember, asking for help is a
sign of strength not weakness.
6} SUPPORT
AND SUGGEST:
programs on
child abuse prevention for local organization; Kiwanis Clubs, Exchange
Clubs, PTA, churchgroups, women's and men's clubs all offer excellent opportunities
for raising awareness
in the community.
7} PROMOTE:
programs in
the schools. Teaching prevention strategies can help to keep children safe
from those that would abuse them.
Quoted from
the National Committee
to Prevent
Child Abuse
Joy Byers,
May 1996
by way of:
"Child Abuse
Prevention Foundation"
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