SARASOTA – Kids are living in difficult times thanks to the pandemic. But for some, it may be even worse, because things aren’t good at home. The Child Protection Center in Sarasota offers help.
“They’re trapped inside their home with someone they feel as though could probably kill them,” child abuse survivor, Phillip Adams, said. “You walk on eggshells your entire life not knowing what is going to set someone off to have them put your hands on you.”
Phillip Adams is a child abuse survivor. He says he experienced a constant state of PTSD during his elementary years living with his abusive mom and stepdad.
He says school was a place of solace, especially knowing the teachers cared about him. This is why he says school is so important.
“For these kids, school kids more than just A’s and B’s, it’s more than arithmetic, you know it’s a safe haven,” Adams said. “It’s a safe haven for a lot of kids. And it’s not just for the ones who are getting physically abused, there’s mental abuse.”
“Nationally, teachers are your largest category of reporters in child abuse,” Child Protection Center executive director, Doug Staley, said.
Staley says while school programs are on hold, teachers remain a key component in CPC’s work in prevention, intervention, and treatment of child abuse.
“We’re just reminding them if things don’t seem right, if they have concerns, you’re still obligated to make those reports to the hotline,” Staley said.
Issues can be difficult to assess, particularly on a Zoom call, as kids may fear asking for help. So Adams says developing a code can help.
“You know, ‘It’s raining outside’ or ‘my eyes are green,’ when your eyes are definitely not green,” Adams said. “Things like that. Something to let them know that’s somethings off, so they can send help.”
Adam says he was lucky; his grandmother saved him.
“She sent me to live with my dad who was a preacher in Maryland,” Adams said.
“It’s really important for not just the teachers, but family members, stay connected,” Staley said. “And if you have concerns, still make that report so they can be followed up on and we could help keep our kids safe.”
Staley says kids are more likely at risk with parents stressed about the pandemic, unemployment and the market downturn.
“That can increase the potential for physical violence for example,” Staley said.
If you have a child issue to report, the Florida hotline is 1-800-96-ABUSE. But, if a child is in immediate danger, that’s a call to 9-1-1.
“If they need assistance, they’re in great danger right there at that moment, and they can’t wait for a response from the Department of Children and Families, that’s a call to 9-1-1,” Staley said.
If you have questions, CPC remains open for services. Again, the Florida hotline is 1–800–96–ABUSE. For more information, you can their website.
