LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor David A. Paterson to
proclaim April 2009 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in the State of New
York

WHEREAS, The State of New York takes great pride in participating in
months of awareness of important issues; and
WHEREAS, April is traditionally recognized as Child Abuse Prevention
Month; in keeping with this tradition, Court Appointed Special Advocates
for Children of Fulton and Montgomery County is sponsoring a Pinwheel
for Prevention campaign, culminating with a Celebration of Children
Showcase on April 24, 2009; and
WHEREAS, The public cares deeply about child abuse, and a majority
report states that child abuse is a very important moral issue to them;
and
WHEREAS, Preventing child abuse and neglect is a community issue that
depends on the involvement of people throughout the community; and
WHEREAS, Child abuse and neglect not only directly harm children but
also increases the likelihood of long-term physical and mental health
problems, alcohol and substance abuse, continued family violence and
criminal behavior; and
WHEREAS, Child maltreatment occurs when people find themselves in
stressful situations, without community resources, and do not know how
to cope; and
WHEREAS, The majority of child abuse cases stem from situations and
conditions that are preventable in an engaged and supportive community;
and
WHEREAS, Child abuse and neglect can be reduced by making sure each
family has the support they need in raising their children in a safe,
nurturing environment; and
WHEREAS, Effective child abuse prevention programs succeed because of
partnerships created among social service agencies, schools, faith
communities, civic organizations, law enforcement agencies, and the
business community; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor David A. Paterson to proclaim April 2009, as Child
Abuse Prevention Month, in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New
York; and Linda Burns, Director of Court Appointed Special Advocates for
Children of Fulton and Montgomery Counties.