When summer break begins, reports of child abuse and neglect decrease. As strange as that may sound, this is not a good thing.
Unfortunately, data does not indicate children aren't being abused or neglected during the summer months, but rather there are no longer teachers and administrators who see children enough to take notice and make a report.
In fact, on average from May to June, child abuse reports from teachers, administrators, and other advocates can drop by at least 23 percent.
Summertime traditionally has a reputation for sunshine, yet for households without supervision or that are unsafe, this time of year can be one of the most dangerous for a child.
Olive Crest stands in the gap for children and families in crisis all summer long. We envision summers for kids that are not only safe, but also fun and life-giving.
A SAFE HOME FOR THREE CHILDREN
Marie (5), Justin (3), and Remi (2) were found living in dirty conditions while both of their parents battled drug addiction. Marie was forced to watch over her younger siblings, even though just a child herself, and oftentimes, there wasn’t any food in the house for them to eat. When their father went to jail, Rebecca, the children’s mother, was faced with losing her children if she couldn’t provide a safe place for them to live.
She was determined to turn her life around, and Olive Crest was there to help. The family was quickly connected to a team who provided her support and parenting skills, as well as tips and tools for being a successful single mother. She learned what it meant to keep a clean home and get her children to school on time. With these new practices in place, Rebecca has become a more confident mother and has started to build relationships with people who are a support system to her.
Although the family is on the path to success, Rebecca still stays connected to Olive Crest through various groups and involvement opportunities – and her Olive Crest family continues to cheer her on as her parenting abilities blossom.
WHAT LEGACY WILL YOU LEAVE?
Take a moment to consider how you or your family would like to be remembered. What will be the causes and values that you would like to preserve and pass on to others? Now consider this invitation to join the Olive Crest Legacy Society by providing an estate gift to help children and families in the future.
Why Should You Consider Estate Giving? Estate giving allows you to make arrangements for your estate by including Olive Crest in your plans. By leaving a legacy gift to Olive Crest, you ensure your commitment—to end child abuse and find forever families for children—will continue even after your lifetime. You can give to Olive Crest today, or later through your estate gift that may provide tax benefits and even income – all while making a lasting impact on the lives of children in crisis.
Have any questions or like more information? Contact Director of Annual Giving and Operations, Greg Helton, at Charles-Helton@olivecrest.org or 714.543.5437 ext. 1209.
WAYS TO GIVE
GIVE BY MAIL Return your gift in the mail to 2130 E. Fourth Street, Santa Ana, CA 92705.
GIVE BY PHONE You can also give your gift by calling 800-550-CHILD (2445)
GIVE ONLINE Make an immediate impact. Give securely on their website at www.olivecrest.org/summer2023