Predator-sized donation: Hockey franchise provides funds to local child center
|
According to Anita Moore, director of the 31st Judicial District Child Advocacy Center which serves Warren and Van Buren counties, the local center was presented with a check by the Predator organization for $4,600 during ceremonies at the team facility.
The money will go toward purchasing a piece of equipment called a colposcope which will be stationed at the center. The instrument is used in examining children to determine if there has been sexual abuse. The donation will cover half the cost of the machine, with the other half still to be raised.
The child advocacy center is a child-friendly house used to interview abused children. The center has been used numerous times already this year.
“Before the center was started here, abused children would have to go to the jail or an office to be interviewed by investigators,” Moore said. “This could be pretty traumatic for children who had already been traumatized by abuse. The center provides a more child-friendly surrounding where investigators can conduct interviews.”
Moore said the colposcope will be purchased as soon as enough funds are raised. The purchase and location of the machine at the center, Moore noted, will save money and travel time in the long run.
“Right now, we have to take the child 150 to 200 miles to have the examination,” Moore said. “Once we have the machine in-house, we can conduct our entire investigation in one place, which will reduce the stress on the child.”
Moore said the Predator donation came after the local center applied for one of the grants offered by the organization. The Predators offer a total of $125,000 in donations to charitable causes.
As for the remaining money needed to purchase the machine, Moore said the center will apply for other grants but will also welcome contributions by private citizens, civic clubs and church groups. To make a contribution or get more information, call the center at 507-2386.