🙏As we exit April and Child Abuse Awareness Month, let's reflect on the sobering reality that millions of children worldwide suffer from abuse and neglect.
The Blue Sunday Child Abuse Prevention initiative calls upon the faith community to unite in prayer on April 28, 2024, as a collective act of solidarity and support for all vulnerable children.
Child Abuse Prevention Month holds a poignant history, stemming from a report that captured the attention of President Ronald Reagan in 1983. Yet, despite increased awareness and efforts, the number of abused children continues to rise, with over six million new reports of abuse annually and 1600 child abuse-related deaths recorded each year. One instance of abuse is one too many.
The statistics are heartbreaking: one in four girls and one in six boys will experience sexual abuse before turning 18.
Moreover, many incidents of child abuse are intertwined with drug and alcohol misuse, perpetuating a cycle of suffering and trauma.
Tragically, within just one year of aging out of the foster care system, 66% of victims find themselves homeless, trafficked, incarcerated, or worse.
In the United States alone, an estimated 300,000 children are commercially exploited every year, robbed of their innocence and dignity. It's a crisis that demands urgent attention and action.
On Blue Sunday, let us lift our voices in prayer for these precious children:
Pray for their swift removal from abusive situations.
Pray for loving, nurturing placements where they can find safety and protection.
Pray for healing of their minds and bodies, restoring their sense of worth and dignity.
Pray for the tireless efforts of those working to protect and rescue them, providing them with the support and resources they need.
Beyond prayer, let's commit to educating ourselves about the signs of abuse, volunteering with organizations dedicated to child protection, and advocating for policies that prioritize the safety and well-being of all children.
Together, let's strive to ensure that black and blue are merely colors in a child's crayon box, not symbols of their suffering.
#abuse #childabuseawareness
#protectourkids #bluesunday
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3 days ago
Our founder, Tina, was honored to be interviewed by Lauran Hahn for their helper, Healer, Heroes Series.
Thank you for letting us share about all we are doing to invest and empower lives in our community.
Read the full interview on the link below.
www.mindfullivingcounselingservices.com/blog/mindful-living-counseling-orlando-helper-and-healer-...?
#mindfulliving #helper #healer #heroes #blog #interview
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3 days ago
💙 Love Missions leaders recently traveled to Palm Beach Atlantic University to meet with the 2024 South America team.
Over pizza🍕, they discussed preparations for the upcoming trip and enjoyed catching up with past team members.
A touching moment occurred when they reunited with Merlyn from Guyana, sparking tearful emotions as they reminisced about their time in South America, and with the sunflower house kids 💙
Love Missions 2024 team is extremely excited to be headed back in May and see what God has planned for us all.
#pbauniversity #adventure #missions #serving
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5 days ago
👖April 24th is Denim Day! Denim day is more than just wearing jeans. It's a powerful statement against sexual violence. Let's unite to support survivors by fostering a culture of being heard, seen and respected.
Only together, can we make a difference.
#denimday #endsexualviolence 💙
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7 days ago
We had another large request for our bags. 32 Freedom bags were delivered!
Thank you Sarah for volunteering to deliver these bags of encouragement.
Huge shoutout to our amazing volunteers who make it all possible. Your generosity brings encouragement, love, and joy to those who need it most. Together lives are being changed.💙
#freedombags #VolunteerHeroes #MakingaDifference
#survivors #domesticviolence #EndTrafficking #toxicrelationships
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1 week ago
In June, we will be traveling with a team to Wisconsin.
We are thrilled to be part of Oasis Fest 24!
Join us as we tackle the fight against human trafficking in Wisconsin.
From inspiring talks to uplifting worship, and VBS fun for the kids, it's a day that will be filled with purpose and hope.
Plus, we're partnering to set up a transitional house for survivors, making real change happen.
If you're in the area we'd love to see you there.
If you want to be part of our team DM us.
We only have a few slots available.
Reach out to us for more information.
#OasisFest24 #EndHumanTrafficking" #worship #togetherwearemakingadifference. #transitionhome #survivors
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2 weeks ago