Published Oct. 22, 2004
Where do we go from here?
The Safe Environment Committee has been gathering and reviewing resources that can help all of us deal with the prevention of child sexual abuse. Happily, one of the best resources is one developed here in Alaska as a joint project of the Alaska Child Abuse Prevention Network and the Alaska Children’s Trust. This cooperative effort resulted in a resource kit available free to the public.
All of the items included in the kit can be reproduced and used free of charge. A CD is included that enables computer users to access the materials easily. A copy of the kit has been included in the library of materials that we are sending to each parish. The kit includes information on how to obtain additional copies from various locations in the state. Look for the large blue and white folder named "Happy Childhoods Last a Lifetime" from among the items in the library.
One page of the kit suggests actions that churches can take to help prevent child abuse. It states: "A community’s most influential organizations are often its religious institutions. Churches, temples, synagogues, mosques and other faith-based groups play an important role in reaching out to and helping families and children at risk. Spiritual leaders can use their messages as a positive force in supporting child abuse and neglect prevention."
Prevention activities for faith communities may include the following:
• Acknowledge child abuse and neglect as a major concern for the faith community, and affirm that religious leaders are dedicated to the concern.
• Raise awareness of child abuse and neglect by celebrating children and families.
• Train religious leaders to recognize the signs of abuse and neglect, to work effectively with victims and their families, and to make appropriate referrals.
• Host self-help or parent education and support groups at faith community facilities and stay informed about local resource and referral services.
• Offer respite care to congregation and community members in need of short-term relief from care giving or foster parenting responsibilities.
• Organize a "Baby Supplies" drive to collect diapers, formula, car seats and other supplies to support families in need, including foster families.
• Sponsor on-site after-school programs and safety training for children.