A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES

For 25 years, Children’s Trust Foundation has focused on creating a world without child abuse. Because national research shows that the protective factors reduce incidents of child abuse and neglect, we’ve funded this work in communities throughout the state and made Washington a place where more children and families are supported. We believe that a world without child abuse is possible when family-serving organizations and systems are cultivated through the protective factors.

When the protective factors are present within families, children are given the optimal conditions to thrive and grow. Our Parent Support & Education Grants exclusively fund community-based programs that advance these factors.

THE PROTECTIVE FACTORS

Parental Resilience

No one can eliminate stress from parenting, but parental resilience can affect how a parent deals with stress. Job loss, death, divorce, or other challenges strain parental resiliency.

Social Connections

Isolation is a common risk factor for abuse and neglect. Parents who are isolated especially need support to build positive friendships.

Knowledge of Child Development

Parents who understand child development and appropriate expectations for their child’s behavior are more likely to avoid harsh discipline techniques. Parents of children with developmental or behavioral problems need extra support building this protective factor.

Concrete Support in Times of Need

When this Protective Factor is present within families, basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter are met. This factor ensures that families facing special challenges, such as domestic violence, mental illness, or substance abuse, receive support even if their problems are difficult to admit.

Social & Emotional Competence of Children

Children with challenging behaviors are more likely to be abused. Parents who understand how to teach their children to react positively, self-regulate, and effectively communicate their emotions build a foundation for strong success in school and in life.

For more information about our grants and other programs, please contact us by e-mail.