Child Protection Center Expanding in North Port for Child Abuse Victims
Your Observer – For over 42 years, The Child Protection Center (CPC) has been providing lifesaving services for child abuse victims in Sarasota and DeSoto County. CPC continues to expand their efforts in South Sarasota County, in order to fight the darkness that lurks behind closed doors.
Congressman Greg Steube announced that CPC received a Federal Earmark for THREE MILLION DOLLARS to ensure our community is supported in bringing healing to victims of child abuse. On February 15th, community members and elected officials were invited to CPC’s South County Grand Opening, which commemorated the continued expansion.
In 2021, CPC purchased a large property in North Port, to meet the growing need of child abuse services post COVID pandemic. Recently, North Port was ranked the 2 nd fastest growing city in the United States.
From 2000-2020 the population of North Port grew by 213%- almost ten times more than Sarasota and Venice in the same time frame. While the booming population and economic growth in North Port is incredible for children and families… darkness still creeps in.
The demand for child abuse services continues to grow at an alarming rate. This year alone, the Child Protection Team has seen a 35% increase in the need for medical examinations for alleged child abuse victims.
The long-term goal? Creating an entire Campus of Healing.
“This Federal Earmark will help CPC establish an additional 6,000 sq foot brick-and-mortar building to continue meeting the growing needs of our community.” Says Executive Director Douglas Staley.
“The support from our community members is vital in order to bring this dream to life.” says Staley.
