I’m writing to ask for your support in keeping kids safe and investing at least $300 million in “emergency funding” to strengthen child safety and protection programs in the next COVID-19 Relief Package.
Staying at home doesn’t always mean staying safe. The ongoing impacts of COVID-19 in the United States are also exposing vulnerable children to an increased risk of violence. Research from RAINN shows that children are at risk for child abuse at home and in their neighborhoods; a third of abusers are close family members, and over 80% are known to the child. 
I believe that our nation’s response to COVID-19 must include resources to help protect kids, prevent violence, and provide services to help abused children heal and seek justice. 
Child abuse in the U.S. was already rampant; the pandemic is exacerbating the issue. Many children are now hidden from an army of mandated reporters who would have protected them:  teachers, doctors, dentists, and even child protective service professionals.  As families struggle with disruptions in routine, isolation from society, financial insecurity, stress, and anxiety, the risk of child abuse in all its forms is on the rise—particularly for children already living in vulnerable situations.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted serious problems for vulnerable children. But timely action by Congress can help reduce their risk for violence and keep kids safe.
Thank you.