March 2003

Dear Friends,

Greetings!! This letter is a little late this month because I have been procrastinating…this is a hard letter to write. Next month, April, is Child Abuse Prevention Month and I am reminded of the horrible trauma the kids we serve have lived through. It saddens me. Usually I think of the tremendous changes and growth these children have accomplished, but today we need to remember where they came from and what we can do to help.

The impact of abuse is much greater than the immediate visible effects. Abuse and neglect have many short-term and long-term consequences, including brain damage, developmental delays, learning disabilities, problems forming relationships, aggressive behavior, and depression. Survivors of child abuse and neglect, the children we serve, may be at greater risk for problems later in life, such as low academic achievement, teen pregnancy, criminal behavior, or drug and alcohol abuse. This affects not only the child and family, but society as a whole.

The goal of child abuse prevention is to stop child abuse and neglect. The best way we know to stop abuse and neglect is to support families with the resources they need and NOT ignore the signs. Child Abuse Prevention Month gives us the opportunity to raise awareness of this epidemic and emphasize the role we can all play to support parents and families. You can help by reprinting the included article in your newsletter or bulletin and by taking an active role in providing a safe place for the children in your congregation and community.

Remember, we love to share the story of what God is doing in the lives of hurting children and families through the ministry of Presbyterian Children's Homes and Services. Please contact me toll-free at 1-800-888-1904 and we can arrange a convenient time and date to provide a program for your church, church group, or civic organization. With ordained clergy on staff, we are available to preach/share in worship, as well as provide a minute for mission or a presentation for any size church or church group gathering, i.e. PW groups, men's groups, Sunday school classes, fellowship suppers, Bible studies, etc.

We are having open houses at the following campuses; please help us share this information with your congregation:

Please keep our children, families, and staff in your prayers!

For the Children,

Lisa Bell
Associate Director of Development

P.S. In an effort to save on postage costs, if you have an email address, please send it to me!