Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence


			FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 25, 2002 HOLIDAY SHOPPING PUTS TIRED PARENTS WITH YOUNG CHILDREN IN STORES. TEMPERS CAN FLARE WHICH COULD LEAD TO ABUSE. Columbus Coalition launches education campaign to help the public know what action to take - with information on parenting, shopping with kids and abuse intervention. If you saw an out-of-control, angry parent hitting a child in a store or public place, would you know what to do? When you shop with your kids, do you know what you can do to make it less stressful? Do you know how to report suspected child abuse? With the stressful holiday season upon us, abusive behavior towards children in stores, supermarkets and public places will occur. Many people are shocked by this behavior but don't know what to do; however, there are some proven intervention strategies that can make a difference. The Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence, in partnership with The Kroger Company, has launched an education campaign to help people know what to do when they see abusive behavior directed toward a child. The campaign also provides parenting ideas and tips for making shopping with kids less stressful. The recent "Madelyne Toogood" news story of public child beating illustrates the importance of knowing what to do when abuse occurs in a public place. Preventive action Ð to cool down the situation Ð may have stopped the abuse before it occurred. Beginning Saturday, November 23 and through the holiday season all local Kroger pharmacies in Franklin and Delaware counties and in Pickerington will have informative brochures and resource cards on shopping with kids Ð supermarket strategies Ð and resource cards for parents seeking help. Founded in 1998, The Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence is comprised of leaders from businesses and organizations in Central Ohio committed to reforming our systems to stop the cycle of violence in our community. The Coalition's mission is to promote a community culture that supports victims and does not tolerate family violence. To learn more, please visit out Web site at www.TheColumbusCoalition.org.