Child Advocates, Inc. and Several Retailers "Do Something" in Observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month

March 31, 2003-(HOUSTON)-"Do Something!" for abused children is the charge and Child Advocates, Inc., along with several local retailers are the bearers of the message.

To heighten awareness of child abuse in our city, and to kick off National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, several local retailers including: Whole Foods (Kirby@West Alabama and Bellaire/Holcombe locations), Greenberry Coffee and Tea Company, Border's Books (Kirby@West Alabama and Westheimer locations), the Wine Bucket, Cities and Persona Day Spa will wear Do Something Shirts on April 1.

Child Advocates, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that provides volunteer manpower to help break the cycle of child abuse. Volunteers speak up for abused children who are lost in the system and guide them into safe environments where they can thrive. Volunteers serve as a vital communications link between the children whose rights they advocate for and the judges who determine a child's fate within a very narrow window of time.

Our need for focusing on the welfare of children in our local and national community has never been so critical. According to CPS, on any given day in our city, 3,800 children are in CPS custody due to life-threatening abuse or neglect. Sonya Galvan, chief executive officer of Child Advocates, Inc. believes that the declining state of the local and national economy, coupled with our country being at war will make matters worse for children.

"Many factors contribute to the tragedy of child abuse; undoubtedly our nation's current economic uncertainty, joblessness, fear of war and terrorism can have a significant impact in an abusive household," Galvan said. "Increased tension at home, loss of emotional support systems and financial pressures can lead towards increased aggression towards children. It is critical, now more than ever, that we step up our efforts to protect abused children."

During the month of April, Child Advocates, Inc. hopes to educate, inspire and move Houstonians into action in making and a difference in the lives of abused children.

"We are imploring Houstonians to take action this month on behalf of our city's abused children," said Galvan. "If each of us did one small thing for abused children, our impact would be significant. We need people's time, financial support and active concern for the future of the children in this city."

For more information on ways to make a difference during National Child Abuse Prevention Month, call 713.529.1396 or visit: www.childadvocates.org.

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