Children’s Aid Office Kept Open

A county office designed to help abused children that was threatened with closure because of the bankruptcy will remain open, thanks to donations from community groups.

The Child Abuse Prevention Council of Orange County spearheaded a fund-raising effort that collected $12,600. The money was recently donated to the county, which in turn will keep the South County Abuse Services Team office open.

The donation will enable the county to receive the matching state and federal funds needed to continue operations.

The office is used by police, district attorney’s office investigators and health professionals to interview children who have been sexually abused. To make the process easier for the victims, the officials meet at the office and interview youngsters together.

“The goal of the program is to make such interviews as nonthreatening as possible,” said Ken Clark, director of administration for the county’s Social Services Agency.

Supervisors this week praised the council for raising the funds. Supervisor William G. Steiner said he was heartened by the outpouring of support for the community.

Added Clark: “They saved the day.”