As sad as it is, child abuse and neglect is a growing problem in our nation.

Saturday, April 07, 2001

As sad as it is, child abuse and neglect is a growing problem in our nation.

In 1999, a total of 79,261 new cases of child abuse and neglect were reported to Ohio children service agencies alone. The ramifications of child abuse are astounding. Studies have shown children who are abused are more likely to develop alcohol and substance abuse problems, commit suicide, perform acts of violence to others and struggle in school than those who are raised in a loving, caring environment.

To bring awareness to this problem, Gov. Bob Taft has proclaimed April "Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month" in Ohio. In conjunction with "Child Abuse and Protection Month," literature and posters to draw awareness to the issue are being forwarded to public children services agencies and other agencies that deal with child abuse and neglect. In addition, the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and Family and Children First Councils are sponsoring a coloring contest for fifth-graders throughout the state.

We can only hope that by bringing awareness to these heinous acts Ohio can lessen instances of child abuse and offer our children a safer environment in which to live.