ATLANTA — One of the largest child advocacy centers in Georgia is in critical need as it faces losing hundreds of thousands of dollars in federal funding.
With over 900 children served annually, the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy provides critical services, including forensic interviews, family advocacy, trauma-focused therapy and community engagement to reduce child abuse and trafficking across Georgia.
It was recently announced that federal funding through the Victims Crime Act would be slashed by 61%. While the cut will impact other organizations in Georgia, GCCA is the largest serving children in both Fulton and DeKalb counties.
That's why GCCA's CEO Sheila Rogers is asking for the community's help, so they can keep being champions for Georgia's children who face sexual or physical abuse.
"So our Keeping Kids Safe campaign that we've just launched is looking to raise $2 million over the next three years, and that's going to allow us to continue to offer the whole array of services that the kids and families need to heal from the trauma of child sexual abuse or trafficking," Rogers said.
The "Keeping Kids Safe" campaign is a call to action for individuals, businesses, and philanthropic organizations to support the GCCA's mission. Contributions will directly support forensic interviews, wraparound services for families, and free therapy for children recovering from trauma.
Recently, Gov. Brian Kemp announced that he would be directing $26 million from the American Rescue Plan Act to benefit victim services in Georgia. Rogers said this is a much needed fix in the present, but they're hoping funds raised through their campaign will secure their future.
“If we're not able to fill the gap, then we're just not going to be able to provide the level of services that we provide. And, I hate to even think about what that will mean." added Rogers.
To learn more about how to partner with GCCA or donate towards their services, visit their website online.