Lynn C. Woolsey: “a child's safety should never be put in jeopardy. That's why I rise in support of H. Res. 1097, authored by Congressman…”

“a child's safety should never be put in jeopardy. That's why I rise in support of H. Res. 1097, authored by Congressman Courtney from Connecticut. H. Res. 1097 is a bill to designate this month as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. We need to shine a light on the tragic circumstances, Mr. Speaker, that face some of our Nation's children on a daily basis. As people across the country recognize this month as National Child Abuse Prevention Month and promote awareness activities in order to reduce the cases of child maltreatment, this resolution moves us one step closer to securing the safety and well-being of all children. The latest data shows us that in the year 2006, approximately 1,530 children died, died in the United States of America, due to maltreatment, and an additional 905,000 children were victims of abuse and neglect. Even more disturbing, Mr. Speaker, is that our most vulnerable children are at greatest risk. Approximately 90,000 victims of child abuse and neglect in the year 2000 were less than 1 year old. More than 84 percent of those child abuse victims were less than 1 month old. These facts are appalling. We must work together to bring attention to this important issue and begin to strengthen our families and our communities and to keep our children safe.”