By CAREY LEE

You may have noticed a lot of local news recently regarding child sexual abuse. RAINN — Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network — defines child sexual abuse as a form of child abuse that includes sexual activity with a minor. In the United States, a child cannot consent to any form of sexual activity, which includes sexual physical contact or any other contact of a sexual nature.

Here at the Child Advocacy Program (CAP), we work with children who have experienced trauma, with many of them being victims and survivors of child sexual abuse. We are often asked what a child sex abuse offender may look like. There is no mold or single identifying feature that tells you someone may sexually abuse children. It can be anyone. We know that offenders will often put themselves into situations where they will have access to children. That’s why we advise caregivers to not put their children in one-to-one situations with other adults. And talk with your children about body safety and what to do if someone makes them feel uncomfortable. If you ever have a suspicion that someone is sexually abusing a child, call professionals to investigate. You can either call state Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-342-3720, local law enforcement or CAP for guidance.

Child sexual abuse does happen and it’s happening right here in this community. In 2021, CAP received 562 referrals with 338 being cases of child sexual abuse. CAP provides important supportive services for these children but we also want to help prevent these things from happening to children. CAP offers a 2 ¢-hour training called Stewards of Children that helps all adults understand their role to help prevent, recognize and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. If you are interested in learning more, arranging or attending this training, please call CAP at 716-338-9844.

Child sexual abuse is a pandemic in our society that can have long lasting, devastating effects on children.

This is a trauma that can follow them into adulthood and may lead to addiction, unhealthy relationships, depression, eating disorders, suicide, etc. And for those that commit these crimes, it can lead to lengthy time in state prison. If you are an adult who is attracted to children, please seek help. There are many mental health agencies in this community that may be able to help you.

To learn more about our mission to end child sexual abuse in Chautauqua County, please contact the Child Advocacy Program at 716-338-9844 or visit the website at capjustice.org. We are here to help. We are here to educate the community. We are here to help prevent child sexual abuse.

Carey Lee is advocacy coordinator for Child Advocacy Program in Jamestown.