In Kansas and across the nation, many children live in an environment where they are exposed to substance use. Children living in families where addiction is an issue face significant risk. Early exposure to a home affected by substance use can cause a child to feel unsafe, emotionally and physically neglected and can lead to Adverse Childhood Experiences. Despite these risks, it is well established that prevention and early intervention services can break the intergenerational cycle of substance and child abuse within families.
Helping Families Facing Challenges with Addiction
Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL) provides support to families struggling with addiction through our Parent-Child Assistance Program (P-CAP). P-CAP is a voluntary case management service for pregnant women and families who have children under the age of 1 year old and are currently using or have recently used substances. Early identification and weekly support help prevent child abuse and neglect and improve family functioning. KCSL’s P-CAP case management services address the child’s needs and any family medical needs along with linking families to resources in the community. We are also a member of the Kansas Alliance for Drug Endangered Children (KADEC) which is an alliance of local, state and federal partners raising awareness and supporting community efforts for drug endangered children. KCSL supervisor, Jennifer Gassmann is actively involved as a chair for KADEC while supervising our P-CAP program. Through partnership we can break cycles of neglect, abuse and trauma.
How to get Involved
- National Drug Endangered Children Awareness Day: Drug Endangered Children Awareness Day is designated on Wednesday, April 24. To help raise awareness, professionals and community members are wearing red. KADEC will provide information to the community and legislators about drug endangered children and the effects on families and our society.
- Safe Kids Day at the Zoo: The Topeka Zoo is hosting a Safe Kids Day event on Saturday, May 4 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. KCSL and KADEC will be present at the event to provide information and resources to families.
- Kansas Alliance for Drug Endangered Children Conference: The 2024 KADEC Conference will be held on Monday, March 4 in Wichita, KS. The agenda includes the following information and topics:
- Drug Endangered Children & Marijuana: The Danger Remains
- Harm Reduction in Kansas
- Current Drug Trends
- And more!
Free Online Training
KADEC is offering training on The Role of Professionals in Identifying and Intervening in the Lives of Drug Endangered Children. This course is designed to increase awareness about children found in an environment where illegal drugs are manufactured, sold, distributed, used or where there is other significant evidence of illegal drugs.
We all have a part to play in protecting and promoting the well-being of children.
For questions about KADEC training or to get involved in efforts to assist drug endangered children, contact Jennifer Gassmann at 785-221-0424 or jgassmann@kcsl.org.
