79S30674 MMS-D

By:  Dawson                                                       H.R. No. 233



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and the 
citizens of Texas are committed to helping to end the cycle of abuse 
and neglect that affects many of our nation's youth; and
	WHEREAS, Child maltreatment occurs when people find 
themselves in stressful situations, without community resources, 
and cannot cope; the resulting abuse and neglect not only harms 
children directly, but also increases the likelihood of long-term 
physical and mental health problems, alcohol and substance abuse, 
continued family violence, and criminal behavior; and
	WHEREAS, Because the majority of child abuse cases stem from 
situations and conditions that are preventable in an engaged and 
supportive community, the hurtful treatment of children can be 
reduced by making sure that each family has the support it needs in 
order to raise its children in a safe, nurturing environment; and
	WHEREAS, Addressing child abuse and neglect is an undertaking 
that requires the involvement of people throughout the community; 
effective child abuse programs succeed because of partnerships 
created among social service agencies, schools, faith communities, 
civic organizations, law enforcement agencies, and the business 
community; and
	WHEREAS, By recognizing that each of us has an important role 
to play in the prevention of child abuse and neglect, we can make 
many contributions toward securing for the children of Texas the 
care and respect that they deserve; children represent the future 
of this state, and it is the responsibility of our society to ensure 
an environment in which they can grow and thrive; now, therefore, be 
it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 79th Texas 
Legislature, 3rd Called Session, hereby recognize April 2006 as 
Child Abuse Prevention Month and encourage its observance by 
citizens throughout the Lone Star State.