Observe Child Abuse Prevention Month

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The Diocese of Youngs-town invites Catholics in diocesan parishes, schools and institutions and all people of good faith to observe National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

During April and throughout the year, communities are encouraged to share child abuse and neglect prevention awareness strategies and activities and promote prevention across the country.

For Child Abuse Prevention Month resources, visit the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Office of Child and Youth Protection website, www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/child-and-youth-protection/resources/child-abuse-prevention-month-resources.cfm.

The Diocese of Youngs-town ensures safe environments for children and young people entrusted to the care of its parishes and schools by implementing the Diocese of Youngstown Child Protection Policy, Treasured Gifts from God.

Based on the USCCB Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, the DOY Child Protection Policy prescribes the means of prevention, standards of ministerial behavior, response to an allegation, means of healing and reconciliation, and a Diocesan Review Board.

In the Diocese of Youngs-town, all clergy, religious, employees and volunteers receive copies of the Child Protection Policy and must sign an authorization/verification form and an acknowledgement form stating that they will comply with the policy.

All clergy and religious employees and volunteers who have contact with children must be fingerprinted for a criminal background check and participate in the diocesan in-service on safe environments.

A database at the Chancery Office keeps track of each person who serves in diocesan parishes, schools and institutions with the date each compliance requirement is completed.

For more information about child abuse prevention in the Catholic Church, visit the USCCB website, www.usccb.org/ocyp, visit the DOY website, www.doy.org, or contact Thomas D. Sauline, diocesan administrator of child protection, 330-744-8451, tsauline@youngstowndiocese.org.

To report an allegation of child abuse, call him at 330-599-4300.