Child Protection Center Awarded Grant

May 31, 2022 – Sarasota

The Child Protection Center, Inc. (CPC) has received a $5,000 grant supporting mental health services for children experiencing trauma from child abuse. This funding has been generously provided by The Venice Golf and Country Club Foundation (VGCC Foundation).

“In direct regard to sexual and physical abuse, CPC has the only Sexual Abuse Treatment Program (SATP) endorsed by the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County,” explains Doug Staley, Executive Director of the Child Protection Center. “Our organization has held the state contract since 1986, thus making our therapy program completely unique to our community. There are no other agencies who specifically serve the client populations served by CPC.” Mr. Staley went on to explain that the nonprofit’s therapy program is also the only specialized provider for children who exhibit problematic sexual behaviors, “Making our services particularly unique and an essential piece in stopping the cycle of abuse in our community.”

The Child Protection Center continues to face the increased need for services in the wake of the pandemic and the simultaneous population growth in Sarasota County. In the last six months alone, the organization’s therapists conducted 1,563 hours of therapy. This continued support from VGCC Foundation will directly assist the ongoing expansion of CPC’s therapy programs as the nonprofit takes on additional staff to meet the rising demand for child abuse treatment services. “It is through the support of compassionate partners such as the VGCC Foundation that we are able to make these necessary adjustments and ensure that each child in our community has access to CPC’s vital services. No child should ever have to wait to begin their journey of healing after suffering abuse. We are very appreciative of the VGCC Foundation’s generosity.”

The Child Protection Center’s mission is the Prevention, Intervention, & Treatment of Child Abuse, as the organization envisions a community where children are safe from abuse and free to thrive. For over 40 years, CPC has been serving Sarasota and DeSoto Counties in the State of Florida, and is accredited by the National Children’s Alliance. For more information on CPC, visit www.cpcsarasota.org or call 941-365-1277.