APRIL 2025

April is a critical time to reflect on our shared responsibility to protect children and support survivors of sexual assault. This month, we come together to raise awareness, take action, and provide the support needed to make our communities safer.

In the Antelope Valley, the statistics are heartbreaking. Each year, 21 out of every 100,000 children lose their lives to abuse—this rate is far higher than other areas in Los Angeles County. Every number represents a child’s life, and every statistic is a call to action. We must unite to ensure that every child has the chance to grow up in a safe environment.

At the same time, sexual assault continues to devastate our community. In 2020, 1,983 rapes were reported in Los Angeles, with the highest peak recorded in 2018 at 2,528 cases. These numbers are just the tip of the iceberg—many survivors face barriers that prevent them from coming forward. We must stand in solidarity with them, break the silence, and provide the help they need to heal.

The Child Abuse Treatment (AT) Program offered at Kayla's Place, funded by the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (CALOES), is dedicated to providing critical support to children who have experienced abuse. This program focuses on offering comprehensive services, including counseling, therapy, and advocacy, to help young survivors heal and regain a sense of safety and stability. With the funding from CALOES, we are able to offer these vital services at no cost to the families, ensuring that children get the specialized care they need to overcome trauma and thrive. By focusing on trauma-informed care, we are committed to helping each child rebuild their confidence and resilience, empowering them to move forward with hope.