#parent | #kids | Republic Services Foundation provides supports for children in trauma | #childabuse | #children | #kids

MANISTEE — The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on communities across the globe. It has also caused a spike in child abuse rates while at the same time separating these children from important mandatory reporters, including teachers.

This week, the Republic Services Foundation stood up for vulnerable children through a $2,500 grant to the Manistee County Child Advocacy Center. The funds will be used to provide uninterrupted essential services to child abuse victims in the community.

One of 33 child advocacy centers in the state of Michigan, the Manistee County CAC provides forensic interviews of child victims, provides multidisciplinary case coordination for allegations of child sexual abuse or severe physical abuse, and offers counseling services and referrals with trained trauma therapists at no cost to children and their non-offending family members. Additionally, the CAC provides free training to adults to recognize the signs of abuse and know how to report responsibly.

“We are grateful for the generous support of Republic Services, which will allow us to continue to provide high quality care and to ensure that abused children receive the services they need,” said Megan McCarthy, Executive Director of the Manistee County Child Advocacy Center.