Recognizing the vital need to address and support programs and policies that improve community welfare, Democratic Representative Elizabeth “Spencer” Wetmore (D-115) played a pivotal role in securing significant funding for Darkness to Light – a national not-for-profit leader in the prevention of child sexual abuse.
Allocated by the State of South Carolina, this vital financial support will enable Darkness to Light to expand its programs and further its mission to equip and empower adults to build safe environments that protect children from sexual abuse.
By conservative estimates, one in 10 children in the US will be sexually abused before the age of 18, making child sexual abuse one of the most prevalent public health issues facing society today. For nearly 25 years, Darkness to Light has been at the forefront of the fight against child sexual abuse, offering evidence-informed, award-winning training programs that teach adults practical steps they can take to reduce instances of abuse and how to react responsibly once abuse occurs.
The endorsement from Representative Wetmore comes at a crucial time as the organization is actively working to enhance its initiatives, target unreached populations, and provide essential adult-focused training to communities worldwide.
“We are not only profoundly grateful for the funding championed by Representative Wetmore, but for her dedication and commitment to ensuring South Carolina is doing its part to protect children in communities across the state,” said Rhonda Newton, CEO of Darkness to Light. “As adults, we all have a role to play in protecting children, and Representative Wetmore’s support honors that commitment. This funding will significantly impact our ability to make a lasting and positive change in the lives of children and families across the nation and globally.”
The $250,000 in emergency funding supports the improvement and reach of the organization’s education and training programs, including a new version of its flagship training, Stewards of Children®.
“It is so important to support the mission of organizations like Darkness to Light who are actively working to prevent child abuse in our state and beyond,” said Wetmore. “It is each of our responsibility as adults and citizens to do everything we can to protect our children.”
