Child sexual abuse is likely the most prevalent health problem children face with the most serious array of consequences. Tomorrow, November 21, 2014 YOU can make a difference, by financially supporting the Lancaster County Children’s Alliance (LCCA) during the one-day online giving event organized by the Lancaster County Community Foundation, The Extraordinary Give.
For 24 hours only, visit the link above, make a donation (min. $25) and every dollar you donate will be stretched by $250,000 from the Lancaster Community Foundation and their presenting sponsors. PLUS, there’s an additional $50,000 in prizes we can win just from your donation!
Research shows 1:10 children will be sexually abused by the age of 18. However, only 38% will disclose the fact that they have been sexually abused. Many never tell. Lancaster County has a population of 529,600 people with 128,692 being 18 and under. This means 12,869 children in Lancaster County will be sexually abused. By offering services to children victimized by abuse we are making a difference in the life and safety of our community every day.
The Lancaster County Children’s Alliance not only benefits the child, but also the entire community. As the Children’s Advocacy Center for Lancaster County, the Children’s Alliance coordinates a multidisciplinary team response to each case, acting as the neutral agent and central contact point for treating, tracking and referral to resources needed. Children in the midst of emotional turmoil require immediate and undivided attention. They do not need to be shuttled from place to place. The Children’s Alliance is a place designed to create a sense of safety and security for children by providing forensic interviews and specialized non-invasive medical examinations (the only place in Lancaster County to provide such services!), referrals for trauma therapy and ongoing services for child and family in one supportive, child-focused facility.
At the Children’s Alliance each interview is video recorded while the multidisciplinary team listens and observes to minimize the number of times a child must detail their abuse. The video recording also increases the accuracy of information provided to professionals investigating the case. The child is then examined- non-invasively– by a specially trained pediatrician or Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner. The parent will speak with the investigators and together work on a safety plan.
This calming approach ensures children are not re-traumatized by the very system designed to protect them. Having a Children’s Advocacy Center in Lancaster County helps break the cycle of victimized children
If you’d like to join us for this community-wide celebration of giving, we’re hosting an Open House at 628 North Duke Street, Lancaster, PA 17602 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. During this time, join us for light refreshments, a tour of the center, or just stop by and donate (private donation space will be available).
Thank you for making a difference by donating online, joining us at our Open House or by forwarding this email. Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/LancasterCountyChildrenAlliance and share our posts throughout the day!
Thank you
The Lancaster County Children’s Alliance
