LANCASTER, PA (04, 11, 2019) – In 2017, there was an average of 13 reports of confirmed child abuse each day in Pennsylvania. THAT'S 13 TOO MANY. Every child deserves a safe and happy childhood free from violence. During National Child Abuse Prevention Month, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Lancaster County challenges residents to stand against child abuse and take action to support children who have been abused or neglected.
“The number of children coming into care in Lancaster County continues to grow and we aim to give these children a voice,” said Jessica Laspino, Executive Director. “Every child deserves the support of a caring, consistent, trained adult to help them find a safe, loving home where they can heal and thrive.”
Throughout the month of April, CASA is calling on community members to help close the gap of about 400 youth in foster care (ages 0-21) who do not yet have a CASA Volunteer Advocate. According to Director of Community Outreach, Melissa Leibig, “CASA currently serves about 40% of these children and teens but more help is needed if we are to reach our goal of serving “every child in need by 2020.”
Without intervention, the odds are stacked against these vulnerable children. Studies show that if a child has a CASA Volunteer they are more likely to receive needed services, such as health care, therapy, and education. These children are more likely to be adopted, rather than languish in long-term care. CASA volunteers are a constant for the child in a time of chaos. A child may have multiple social workers, attorneys, therapists and foster placements throughout the life of the case but only one CASA volunteer, which can make all the difference for the child’s future. We have two upcoming sessions on becoming a CASA:
Wednesday, May 15 at 6 p.m. at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd
Monday, June 17 at 12 p.m. at LGH Suburban Outpatient Pavillion
To RSVP, or for more information about CASA of Lancaster County, visit www.casalancaster.org, call (717) 208-3280, or email casa@calancaster.org.
