The bill H. 4213 is a concurrent resolution introduced in the South Carolina General Assembly to declare April 15, 2025, as "Children's Advocacy Center Day" in the state. This resolution aims to recognize and highlight the critical work done by Children's Advocacy Centers in addressing child maltreatment, abuse, and neglect. It notes that over 380,000 children are served by these centers nationwide each year, with South Carolina's centers providing support to 13,784 child victims in 2024 alone, marking a three-percent increase from the previous year. The resolution emphasizes the various forms of abuse that children face, including sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect, and psychological maltreatment.
The resolution also acknowledges the efforts of Children's Advocacy Centers in promoting excellence in child abuse response and prevention through direct services, education, and collaboration. It calls for the South Carolina General Assembly to take a moment to reflect on the growing issue of child abuse and its impact on the community. Additionally, the resolution includes a provision to present a copy of the resolution to Thomas Knapp, the President and CEO of the South Carolina Network of Children's Advocacy Centers, to honor their contributions to the welfare of children in the state.