Childhelp Partners with Shaq to Launch ChildHelper National Membership Program

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., April 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Child abuse is a big problem in the U.S. with five children dying each day from abuse, so Childhelp, a national nonprofit dedicated to the prevention and treatment of child abuse, is teaming up with Shaquille O'Neal to launch a national membership program designed to give Americans the resources they need to be educated and fight child abuse.

Nationally, maltreatment cases were 772,000 in 2008 and fatalities increased from 1330 in 2000 to 1740 children in 2008. Recent studies estimate the impact of child abuse on American society to be over $100 billion annually.

"The numbers are going in the wrong direction and our national membership program gives Americans interested in putting an end to child abuse the ability to come alongside Childhelp in the fight," said Jim Pierce, interim COO for Childhelp. "We are excited to have Shaq join us in launching this important education and advocacy program."

National Members commit $10 monthly or a one time pledge of $120.  Just $10 a month supports a child in multiple ways: food, clothing and field trips.  ChildHelpers are critical to our success and a huge part of a national movement to create awareness, public involvement and a widespread outcry against the terrible cruelty being waged on this country's children. To become a national member, go to www.childhelp.org or make a one time donation of $10, text CHLP to 20222.

"Child abuse is a problem, and I want to be part of the solution," said Shaquille O'Neal. "These kids need our help and funding programs that heal them makes sense."

Shaq will film a PSA for Childhelp to help promote the campaign and the benefits to children nationally.

Some ways to make a difference include:

• Learn the signs and symptoms of abuse. Report known or suspected child abuse to the local police department. If you have questions about child abuse, call the Childhelp® National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD®.
• Help out a stressed-out parent by offering to baby-sit, make dinner or just lend an understanding ear.
• Write Congress through www.PurpleLetter.org by using the promo code "Childhelp1959." The first 500 people can send two free letters to elected officials and media outlets.

For more information about Childhelp, call 480-922-8212 or www.facebook.com/childhelp.

SOURCE Childhelp

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