Friday was a bad news day for the Pike Regional Child Advocacy Center.

Camille Downing, Center executive director, said she received news from the National Association of Victims Assistance Administrators that Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) will likely receive a 12.5 percent funding cut this coming year.

“This is unofficial but it is estimated that the total amount cut for the Office of Justice Programs (management and administrative expenses) will be between $175 and $200 million,” Downing aid. “Of that amount, about $57 million would be taken from the Crime Victims Fund. About $50 million will come from the amounts that would otherwise be available for state Victims of Crime Act assistance grants. That translates to a cut of 12.5 percent from all 2011 grants.  This will greatly affect all Child Advocacy Centers.”

Downing said the Pike Regional Child Advocacy Center/Family Resource Center can only achieve its goals with the assistance of grants, fundraisers and generous donations from members of the Pike County community.

“Without this assistance, providing services in our area would not be possible,” Downing said. “We will be celebrating Child Abuse Prevention Month during the month of April. Not only is this a time to raise awareness of child abuse, it is also an opportunity for us to raise funds for our center.”

The Pike Regional CAC will begin accepting orders for child abuse prevention T-shirts on March 1. The T-shirts are $12 each. The CAC will also sell blue bows for $10 each. The blue bow represents the hidden bruises of abused children and is recognized as the national symbol of child abuse prevention.

“Our organization relies on the generosity of individuals, businesses and organizations,” Downing said. “We need the Pike County community and surrounding communities to support our cause. It is our hope that local organizations and businesses consider being sponsors through donations. We need the support of everyone.

“Any amount donated in support of child abuse and child neglect victims will be greatly appreciated.”

For more information, contact Downing at 334-670-0487.