This is a list of things I have included in our educational program on what "you" can do, assuming you're a community member who wants to help survivors of child abuse.
- Become educated on the issues and struggles of “survivors”.
- Enroll in the module titled, Empathy Training (offered through SEASCAT's educational program).
- Volunteer! Depending on your level of understanding, there are different volunteering opportunities. If nothing else, help out in the thrift store or offer to provide transportation through SEASCAT or a church/housing/food pantry. We do not recommend picking up hitch-hikers, when you don’t know who they are, as it may not be safe. While most survivors are good people, most do have problems and in desperate situations can do harm to themselves or others. You can also volunteer at the nearest community sponsored food pantry or soup kitchen.
- Survivors need to know that there are people who see them as worthwhile. Smile. Be polite. But don’t say things that can be interpreted as put-downs or discouragement. Do not provide advice that may not be welcome and could appear as judging. And don’t make promises that you can’t guarantee.
- Donate! Donate $ if you have it- to SEASCAT, food pantry or local shelter. Donate clothing, especially during any coat drives that so often occur in the late summer/early Fall.
- If you’re a property owner, with rentals, offer some as low rent to survivors who are actively working on their recovery. Housing is always a problem.
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