Connections, September 2020

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In this issue: Human Trafficking Truths, Hispanic Heritage Month, Foster Care FAQs,
Golf, Gala, Trivia Night, and Winter Coat Drive

Human Trafficking: Separating Fact from Fiction

The public has become increasingly alarmed about the commercial trafficking of children, and with good reason. Human trafficking is a multi-billion-dollar epidemic that continues to spread in the United States, and concerned parents worry about how to keep their kids from becoming statistics.

The pivotal question that must be asked is, “where does reality end and irrational paranoia begin?”

The following information is confirmed by the most reliable and respected sources from the U.S. Department of Justice to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children:

Myth: Thousands of kids are abducted in the U.S. every year
Fact: The chances of a child being abducted by a stranger are approximately one in four million, with less than 350 cases every year

Myth: Traffickers are strangers
Fact: In most cases, traffickers are family members or friends of the child being victimized

Myth: All children are equally at risk
Fact: Traffickers target the most vulnerable children, including those in the child welfare system, youth experiencing homelessness, and those in marginalized populations

Myth: Traffickers typically abduct children
Fact: Traffickers typically use coercion by luring children with a false sense of love, safety, and security

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Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month

September 15 to October 15 is National Hispanic American Heritage Month. Today we honor Antonia Panjoja, a native of Puerto Rico, a Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient and a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW)--the same organization that just bestowed an award on our own executive director (see below). For six decades, Antonia made a significant national impact as a social worker, educator, feminist, and civil rights leader.

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Do you have questions about becoming a foster family?

Many worry that as we emerge from the Coronavirus pandemic, the child welfare system will be flooded as children return to school and the impacts of family stress become public once again. In anticipation of an increased need, Shelter is seeking new foster families. For information, contact our Licensing Specialist at 847.590.6190, x35 or complete our online Information Request Form.

Our 16th Annual Michael Portelli Golf Outing may look a little different this year, but the goal is the same: To have some fun while raising needed funds for kids and families in crisis. Join us for a round!

Where: Makray Memorial Golf Club in Barrington
When: Tee Times Available September 21-24, 2020.
Fee: $150 Includes cart and gift bag
Questions: Contact Barb Mazursky at BMazursky@shelter-inc.org
Can't golf but would like to support Shelter, Inc.? Click here to make a donation.

Click here to register!

Shelter's "Charity Ball" Gets a New Name and New Look!
Save the Date: Friday, November 20

Our annual fundraising event known as "Charity Ball" has been renamed the "Home is Where the Heart is" Gala. Now more than ever, we realize and appreciate the true value of home. The event reflects our hope and vision that every child will grow up in a safe, nurturing and loving home. Watch your inbox for details!

Virtual Trivia Night
Saturday, October 3 at 7:00pm
Presented by Friends of Shelter and hosted by Baig of Tricks Entertainment, this YouTube Live event is a fun way to support Shelter's programs for children and families in crisis. Click here to register yourself or a team!

Winter Coat Drive
September 28 through October 23
Please help us provide new winter coats to the children and young adults in our Emergency Group Homes, Foster Care, Youth Experiencing Homelessness, and Transitional Living programs. Contact Zoe at zmcgrath@shelter-inc.org and watch your inbox for information.

HELP NEEDED Many of our families are currently struggling to make ends meet due to the temporary loss of jobs or decreased hours of work. There is an immediate need for basic necessities such as food, toilet paper, and disinfectant wipes. You can help by purchasing gift cards to Target, Walmart, or Amazon and sending them directly to our email at shelter@shelter-inc..org. They will either be forwarded to the families who need them or we will purchase and deliver items. Or you may purchase items directly from our AmazonSmile Charity List (below).