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WHEREAS, child abuse is a widespread social problem that can only be prevented through education, support and involvement of the entire community; and,
WHEREAS, the millions of children who are abused each year have created a social crisis that threatens the well-being and future of the country; and,
WHEREAS, effective child abuse prevention programs succeed because of partnerships amongst social service agencies, schools , religious and civic organizations, law enforcement, government and the business community; and ,
WHEREAS, the month of April is widely recognized and observed as Child Abuse Prevention Month in an effort to raise awareness about abuse and promote non-violent discipline and good communication between parents and children and to inform families about community resources; and,
WHEREAS, Allegheny County agencies and organizations are amongst the most active and successful in the nation in recognition, screening, prevention and education of child abuse.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh recognizes Family Resources, A Child's Place at Mercy, CASA, the National Council of Jewish Women, Childwatch of Pittsburgh, Kidsvoice and institutions such as Children's Hospital , Allegheny County Family, Juvenile and Children's Court, the Department of Human Services Office of Children, Youth and Families and the District Attorney's Child Abuse Unit for their efforts to protect children; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Joanne Witkowski, a community activist, be recognized for her efforts in working with these agencies and institutions to raise awareness to prevent all forms of violence and crimes against children.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare April 2007 to be "CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH" in the city of Pittsburgh.