FAQ

Child Abuse Prevention Services, Inc. (CAPS)

·                    What are the different types of child maltreatment/child abuse?

Physical, emotional and sexual.

·                    Who is most vulnerable?

50% of children  under 6 years of age and 75% under 12.  One in 5 children will experience abuse.

·                    What services/programs does CAPS provide?

A school-based child abuse prevention/personal safety education program, parenting education, and crisis intervention/counseling for children who have experienced abuse.

·                    What should you do if your child is abused?

Go to your family doctor or emergency room, report to DSS or law enforcement, contact us.

·                    How can you protect your child against sexual abuse?

Be a good role model, teach your child personal safety and body privacy, and establish true open communication.

·                    Do you have to report abuse?  How?

Yes, North Carolina law requires any person with reasonable suspicion to report to the County Department of Social Services or law enforcement.  There is immunity for good faith reporting, and you can report anonymously.

·                    How many reports of child abuse are there yearly?

Over 5 million a year in the US, over 100,000 in North Carolina and over 4,000 in Buncombe County.

·                    What is the cost of child abuse?

$250 million a day or $95 billion a year.  This equates to $1500 per family a year, yet only $1 per family is invested in prevention.

·                    Is it more likely a child will experience abuse from a stranger or from someone the child knows?

In 80 to 90% of cases, it is a parent, step-parent, relative, family friend or neighbor. 

·                    What is the April Blue Ribbon Campaign?

In 1990 a grandmother in Virginia tied a blue ribbon to her car antenna after her grandson was fatally abused.  Her actions have led to thousands/millions of Blue Ribbons during April Child Abuse Prevention Month to increase awareness and demonstrate a commitment to reduce/prevent child abuse.

·                    What is the vision of Child Abuse Prevention Services, Inc.?

That one day all children – our most precious yet most vulnerable asset – can have a safe, healthy childhood and the opportunity to reach their potential.

·                    How can I get more information?

Call 254-2000, email: childadvocacy@buncombe.main.nc.us, or go to our website at www.childabusepreventionservices.org