April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, so we’re featuring articles and videos that shine a light on services that strengthen parents so they can keep their children safe and their family together. Like this one, from Julie Paine:
When we look at preventing child maltreatment, for families all over the world, connection—both to people and to concrete resources—is a distinguishing characteristic of families who successfully endure hard times.
Presence with other people helps parents feel like they’re not alone, and that feeling of being with others gives people courage and hope that they’ll be OK.
For families facing crisis, connection can make all the difference. It’s a completely different experience to be flailing alone in an ocean versus having someone jump in the water with you, hopefully someone with a life preserver ring and a boat who can help bring you to shore.
Scripture speaks to us about bearing one another’s burdens. That kind of presence is a lifeline. I can think of many times, raising my kids, where if it hadn’t been for the physical presence of friends or family saying, We’re going to get through this, I’m here with you, I can’t imagine where I’d be. It’s just so key.
In our work at Bethany, strengthening and supporting families, I want our advocates, donors, and volunteers to see the significant role they play. The work you do to be intentionally present with people who feel alone matters at least as much as the services themselves.
Read the rest of Julie’s article, “Safe, loved, and—most of all—connected,” about the life-changing power of connection.
Let’s keep kids safe by keeping their families together!
