According to the U.S. Department of Justice, more than 60 percent have been exposed to crime, abuse, and violence, often in their own homes. Children’s exposure to violence, whether as victims or witnesses, is often associated with long-term physical, psychological and emotional harm. Furthermore, children exposed to violence are at a higher risk of engaging in criminal behavior later in life and becoming part of a cycle of violence.
Le Bonheur Community Health and Well-Being is one of the participants in the Network to Overcome Violence and Abuse (NOVA). Implemented by the Shelby County Office of Early Childhood and Youth, NOVA aims to reduce children’s exposure to violence -- both as victims and witnesses – by increasing the family’s access to social workers, counselors, therapists, and other services. NOVA participants provide counseling and other victim services in six zip codes in Memphis – areas that have high incidences of children experiencing or witnessing violent acts.
For more information, please contact Sandra Allen at (901) 287-4705 or Sandra.Allen@lebonheur.org.
