Dear Friends,

This time last year, I asked for your help with the many unexpected challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our main priority was the safe care of the children we serve, and you responded to our call for assistance. Together, we provided foster care facilities with much needed hand sanitizer, hand soap, disinfecting wipes, face masks, medical gowns, toilet paper, additional staffing, and meals for children in need. Thanks to your help, the Children’s Foundation of America provided support to over 2,000 children at 23 direct service organizations.

During the pandemic, children across the country have been isolated at home with their abusers, and experts believe there has been an unseen surge in abuse behind closed doors related to unemployment and financial strain. The extent of the abuse inflicted on children during the COVID-19 lockdown is unknown, but many children continue to be removed from their unsafe homes and placed into foster care until a permanent safe place can be provided.

The CDC found that if left untreated, child abuse and neglect increases the risks of injury, future violence victimization and perpetration, substance abuse, sexually transmitted infections, delayed brain development, lower educational attainment, and limited employment opportunities. As someone who has faced abuse in my own childhood, I can say that without a doubt, one caring adult changed the trajectory of my life. My fifth-grade teacher noticed I needed help and provided the support I needed. Thanks to her, I am here advocating for children who have experienced the same trauma and hardship that I endured.

For Child Abuse Prevention Month, please consider changing the odds for a child who has experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment by making a donation. Your contribution provides scholarships, art therapy, clothing, bedding, summer camp, contact lenses, birthday and holiday gifts, and so much more. These resources and opportunities are necessary to the development of any child but are especially important to a child who has experienced trauma and the disadvantage of not having family support.

Thank you for helping provide what is essential for children to heal, learn, and thrive.

Cher Ofstedahl
Chief Executive Officer

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