Fundraiser launched to save program for kids exposed to violence

The Hoffman Estates-based Children's Advocacy Center of North and Northwest Cook County launched a fundraiser Monday hoping to make up for state funding cuts to a program that helps very young children recover from exposure to violence.

Created in 2001, the Safe From the Start program had been receiving 39 percent of its annual budget from the state until its funding was eliminated recently from Illinois' budget.

The fundraiser - which seeks to collect $125,000 before July 1, 2017 - was given a big head start by a $50,000 contribution from Rita and John Canning of Inverness.

Rita Canning is chairwoman of the Women In Need Growing Stronger (WINGS) and a member of CAC's leadership board.

"We are proud to support the important work being done at Safe From the Start," Rita Canning said in a written statement. "This program is an excellent resource in our community and we would like to see it stay in our community for years to come."

"We are immensely grateful for a gift of this magnitude," said Carrie Estrada, program director for Safe From the Start.

Hundreds of children up to the age of 5, and their families, have received free help through the Safe From the Start program. Assistance takes the form of individual and family therapy, crisis intervention and other services.

"Safe From the Start reaches young children exposed to violence, a population of children for whom there are few other services available," CAC Executive Director Mark Parr said in a written statement.

Anyone wishing to donate to the Safe From the Start fundraiser may do so online at classy.org/campaign/safe-from-the-start-campaign/c90533 or by calling (847) 885-0100.

CAC is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization which aims to empower and heal abused children and prevent violence against all children.