October 2008 is National Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month.

Many organizations, including The Gatehouse, take an active role in expanding the October Purple Ribbon Campaign for Child Abuse Awareness Month in Ontario to a National scale.

Neglect is being specifically mentioned in the title of the awareness month to help people understand that neglect is a form of abuse with impacts as dramatic as physical abuse and other forms of child abuse.

The following is excerpted from Members' Statements in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.  These comments were made on Wednesday, Octobre 4, 2006.

Mrs. Julia Munro, MPP (York North): "I rise to join with other members of this House to recognize child abuse awareness month in Ontario. It is sad that we even need a month to increase awareness, but it is necessary to make all Ontarians aware of child abuse and their responsibilities to fight against it.

The Canadian Red Cross tells us that about one quarter of all Canadian children are victims of abuse or neglect before they turn 16. In addition to the legacy of damage and pain, child abuse costs an estimated $15 billion a year in Canada. The Red Cross program to fight child abuse gives us three important steps to follow if we suspect abuse.

The first is, of course, to learn to recognize abuse. Abuse can be emotional, physical or sexual. It can be a constant attack by an adult that negatively affects that child's self-esteem. And when someone neglects a child by failing to provide the basic necessities of life, that's also abuse.

Number two: If you see or hear something that seems abusive, pay attention. Contact the police or social agency that protects children in your area and tell them what you know. It's their job to investigate and determine the appropriate steps.

If something seems wrong with a young person in your life, you should gently ask them if something is wrong and if they would like to talk about it, but don't try to force the issue. Just let that individual know you are willing to listen.

We also have a responsibility to our own children. Let them know they can tell you anything and that you'll listen. Also, teach them how to react if a friend tells them about abuse, because young people often share information with one another that they won't share with adults. Remind them not to keep the secret, and let them know they can come to you at any time. Encourage them to keep telling until they get the help they need."