Keeping children safe: TEEN Center receives $50,000 in grants for abuse prevention efforts

 

The TEEN Center was recently awarded two grants totaling $50,000 by the Alabama Department of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention program, also known as the Children’s Trust Fund, to help make young children safer in our community.

 The trust fund secures resources to fund evidence-based community programs committed to the prevention of child maltreatment, said Felecia H. Allen, TEEN Center director.

The Alabama Department of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention program funds primary and secondary child abuse and neglect prevention programs. Primary Prevention in child abuse refers to efforts aimed at positively influencing parents, guardians and caregivers, and/or children before abuse or neglect occurs. Examples of primary prevention programs include educational programs, and/or hospital-based programs.

Secondary Prevention of child abuse and neglect refers to those supportive services targeted toward populations who are considered to be “at risk” because of their life situation. Example of secondary prevention programs includes support programs for teenage parents, programs for families, youth or children with identifiable stresses.

The TEEN Center was awarded two grants associated with the secondary prevention of child maltreatment. Both grants are for one year, Allen said. Here’s more information about the grants:

The Home Visitation program received a $35,000 grant which provides parenting classes for the parent and child in the home of the participant or group setting. Education on Shaken Baby (abusive Head Trauma) prevention and Safe Sleeping environments are some of the topics covered during home visitation and group meetings. The programs also link participants to community resources and other social service organizations. The ultimate goal of the program is child abuse and neglect prevention.

Parenting Education and Support Programs received $15,000 for the new initiative. The program is designed to increase the knowledge level of pregnant or parenting teens, adults, and teen fathers in child rearing, behavior management, child development, and communication skills. Also offer social support, information and referrals to assist parents and caregivers. The delivery of the program will be completed in group settings or individual sessions (by request). Like the Home Visitation program, the main goal is child abuse and neglect prevention.