Broome Launches Program to Help Traumatized Children

Broome County has a new program to help children dealing with traumatic events.

The new “Handle With Care” initiative has law enforcement, schools and service groups help kids deal with things like witnessing something upsetting like a crime, abuse or an accident, being a victim or experiencing a loss.

Experts say traumatic events known as “adverse childhood experiences: can lead to things like substance use disorders or mental health concerns if left unaddressed.

Under the program, law enforcement officers on the scene will notify a school if a child is involved in a traumatic event so a staff member can work out support options.

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A similar program has been in operation for several years in Endicott with a cooperative effort between the Union Endicott School District and the Endicott Police Department.