The state of Arizona is bolstering its fight against child abuse with a fresh infusion of funding. The Governor's Office of Youth, Faith and Family (GOYFF) has just announced a $100,000 grant distribution to four local organizations squarely aimed at preventing child abuse and neglect, with a particular focus on trauma-informed care and support for affected families. The move signals a further commitment to shore up the state's protective services across a spectrum that encompasses urban, rural, and tribal areas.
"I appreciate the ongoing efforts of community-based organizations that advocate for children's well-being and family strengthening across our state," GOYFF Cabinet Executive Officer Tonya Hamilton said in a statement obtained by GOYFF's official announcement. The expectation is to gradually see the assistance further shore up systems that to effectively treat trauma in young children, striving to cut down on adverse childhood experiences and the lingering effects of trauma early in life.
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs praised the initiative, emphasising the state’s prioritization of expanding access to safe and equitable services that power community health and progress. "The funding awarded by the Office of Youth, Faith and Family will aid in meeting the needs of our most vulnerable populations to build stronger, healthier Arizona communities," Hobbs was quoted in the same release from GOYFF.
The fiscal year 2025 Child Abuse Prevention and Advocacy License Plate (CALP) grants have been awarded to Childhelp, Inc., Hushabye Nursery, Improving Chandler Area Neighborhoods, and Southern Arizona Children’s Advocacy Center, Inc. The selections were made based on their potential to impactfully support vulnerable children and their families, with a spotlight on evidence-based approaches. These grants are funded through the Arizona Department of Transportation Child Abuse Prevention Specialty License Plate program, an initiative that translates community support into real-world action for these critical causes.
