Dear friends, neighbors, and colleagues,
The ongoing and dramatically increased degree of isolation and disconnection created by the COVID-19 pandemic has created an increased risk of child abuse and neglect for already stressed and vulnerable families.
We know all too well that child abuse crosses all boundaries of income, race, ethnic heritage, and religious faith. However, the added stress of job loss, illness, substance abuse, and depression increases the incidence of abuse and neglect.
It truly does take a village to raise infants and children into healthy, thriving, well-adjusted adults. With that in mind, I sincerely hope you will assist us in distributing the attached “Safeguard Our Kids” flyer to your contact lists.
In addition, I kindly ask that you share the attached png of the flyer on your Social Media accounts, with the hashtag #SafeguardOurKids!
With schools being closed until at least September 27, there is one less avenue for the protection of children who show signs of abuse or for children to confide in a trusted adult. Hopefully, an abused or neglected child will open up to a parent, grandparent, or caregiver.
During this unprecedented health crisis, tensions are high, which puts our most vulnerable and innocent youngsters at greater risk. Working together, we can make a difference in the safety and well-being of our children.
Thank you for all you do!
Ricardo Rodriguez, Jr.
Editor’s Note: The above commentary was penned by Hidalgo County Criminal District Attorney Ricardo Rodriguez. It appears in The Rio Grande Guardian with the permission of the author.
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