Facts about Children & Youth:

UNICEF data indicate that, during the decade between 1986 and 1996, armed conflicts killed 2 million children, injured 6 million, traumatized over 10 million and left more than 1 million orphaned. Furthermore, adults escaping conflict are often traumatized and unable to provide the emotional and physical support children need.

Urban areas dominated by violence and poverty in the United States often effect similar stress on children and youth.  When left unaddressed, these traumas will adversely distort psycho-social development and can lead to a destructive cycle. Psychological and emotional scars do not heal themselves and it is essential that steps be taken to adequately address these needs.