Programs that try to prevent child abuse are getting tougher to find

JACKSON COUNTY, Mo. - The Child Abuse Prevention Association has been running a program called PACT for 10 years.  PACT stands for Parents and Children Together. The class is designed to strengthen relationships, teach better methods to handle stress and positive communication. PACT is funded by Jackson County COMBAT but they will find out next week if they get the money to fund the program again next year.

CAPA organizers said it’s difficult to find funders who want to pay for prevention education, such as sexual abuse prevention and personal safety skills. 

Ellen Griffin is the mom of an almost 11-year-old Mary. Ellen grew up in an abusive home. So she wants to make sure she ends the cycle and that’s why they attend the class every Thursday.

“I was in foster homes stating at 14. My mom did the best she could with the tools she had; they were not good you know, she came from an abusive home. I know that there is a cycle and I don't ever want to be a part of that," said Griffin.

Kimberley Oldroyd has a different story. She was in an abusive marriage. She said alcohol played a role. And the state removed her nine year old, Grace from the home. While her mother is recovering Grace is staying with a family friend. In an effort to get her daughter back, they are both taking the class.

“I wish I would know what I am doing now five years ago. It is not just being a better mom to Grace, it is being a better person all around and understanding your feelings and how to act on them,” said Oldroyd.

Oldroyd explained it’s comforting to know she is not alone.

“There are other parents out there making the same mistakes and trying to make it right,” said Oldroyd.

She hopes to have Grace back this summer.

As for Ellen, “I want for her everything I didn't have I want her to look back and say wow I had a really good mom,” said Griffin.

Two very different stories but both with the same goal,  to prevent any future abuse. Both moms said they hope the funding happens and the classes continue.