Proclaiming April 2016 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in the City of Philadelphia.

WHEREAS, No child should suffer abuse and neglect; and

WHEREAS, Society has a fundamental obligation to abused children; and

WHEREAS, Every child has the right to be treated with dignity, to be safe and to thrive in the embrace of a loving family; and

WHEREAS, Every child should have a voice in the decisions that will shape their future; and

WHEREAS, With more than 5,500 children in care there is an urgent need for loving foster families; and

WHEREAS, Children thrive when they have a caring, supportive adult in their lives; and

WHEREAS, When communities come together to provide a network of support, families are stronger and children flourish; and

WHEREAS, Every child deserves a loving home; and

WHEREAS, If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, don’t let them suffer in silence; and

WHEREAS, Foster families provide a safe harbor for children in placement. They help right the wrongs; offer a shoulder to cry on; and most importantly, provide the love, compassion and respect these children deserve; and

WHEREAS, More than 5,500 children in Philadelphia are awaiting loving stable homes; and

WHEREAS, By opening your heart and your home to one of these children, you can make a tremendous difference; and

WHEREAS, We all have a role to play in ensuring the safety and well being of children. Whether it is becoming a foster parent, advocating as a CASA volunteer, mentoring a child or reporting suspected abuse — each of us can make a difference in the life of a child; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That Council does hereby proclaim April 2016 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in the City of Philadelphia.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Jessica S. Shapiro, Acting-Commissioner of the Philadelphia Department of Human Services, as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

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