Aid for Children

Latchkey children and their parents have a poignant problem. What if something happens and the youngster needs help?

Children in Placentia and Yorba Linda will soon have the answer to that problem through “Phone-Friend.” The new telephone service is not day care in its traditional sense. But when youngsters have no one else around, they will at least have a phone number to call. They can use it in small emergencies. Or just when they need to hear a friendly voice to ease any apprehension of being alone.

The service, which has the support of police and school officials, is being financed by donations and staffed by volunteers. Day care is still best. But when it’s not available, having a “Phone-Friend” is an alternative more children left home alone should have.