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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 1, 2008
CONTACT:
Carol Maravic
717-787-6725
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Orie Offers Resolution on Child Abuse Prevention Month

The State Senate this week approved a resolution sponsored by Sen. Jane Orie (R-Allegheny) which designates the month of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Pennsylvania.

Orie said Child Abuse Prevention Month began over 20 years ago in April 1986 to collaborate the efforts of agencies, community organizations and concerned citizens to recognize, educate and prevent child abuse and neglect.

"Child abuse crosses all racial, economic and geographic boundaries and has reached epidemic proportions across this nation and throughout this Commonwealth," Orie said.  "Each year more than 1 million children in the United States are documented as the victims of child abuse, and at least 1,500 children die as a result.  Children under the age of four account  for 81% of the fatalities.

Orie noted that in 2005, 40 Pennsylvania children died in 2005 as a result of abuse and neglect and over 4,000 children cases of abuse were reported.

"Child abuse can and must be prevented and we must raise awareness and public attention so that families learn they have access to community resources which offer support, information and guidance to help stop or prevent abusive behaviors or condition," Orie said.

Her resolution was unanimously approved by the Senate.