Saratoga Center for the Family to Host Fundraiser April 23

SARATOGA SPRINGS —Approximately one in four children experience child abuse or neglect in their lifetime, and of maltreated children 18% are abused physically, 78% are neglected, and 9% are abused sexually, according to a May 2023 report from the National Library of Medicine titled “Child Physical Abuse and Neglect.” 

The fatality rate for child maltreatment is the second leading cause of death in children under the age of 1.

Children tend to feel ashamed, almost like the abuse was their fault, and that is why many don’t tell on their abuser,” Rebecca Baldwin, Executive Director of Saratoga Center for the Family, said in a statement. 

Last year, Saratoga Center for the Family’s Harriet M. West Child Advocacy Center (or CAC) provided 275 forensic interviews to children and their families. “Forensic interviews are conducted at our CAC, which is the first step in an abuse investigation. We have specially trained interviewers speak with the child about the abuse.” “Nurses, law enforcement, social workers, a victim advocate, and mental health therapists are all gathered in one location, making the child(ren) and family as comfortable as possible. Once the child is seen, he or she will be a top priority for mental health therapy,” Baldwin said.

On Tuesday, April 23, the Center will host a Brooks Barbecue Drive-Through at 359 Ballston Ave., Saratoga Springs. The event will take place 3-6 p.m. and guests are encouraged to purchase their tickets early to avoid the dinners being sold out. Tickets can be purchased online at www.saratogacff.org/events or by calling 518-587-8008 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

All proceeds will benefit the children and families served by Saratoga Center for the Family and the Harriet M. West Child Advocacy Center.

For more information on Saratoga Center for the Family and their services, visit www.saratogacff.org.