Foster, Residential, Camp Abuse
Alarming Rise in Child Abuse by Caregivers
The number of children sexually abused while under the care of trusted adults has reached alarming levels. Individuals such as foster parents, residential care workers, and camp counselors hold positions of authority meant to ensure the safety of children. Unfortunately, some exploit this trust and a child's vulnerability to commit horrific acts of sexual abuse.
A study by Johns Hopkins University revealed that children living in group homes are up to 28 times more likely to experience sexual abuse than those in other environments. Additionally, nearly one-third of foster children have reported being sexually abused by caregivers or other adults in their foster homes. In recent years, hundreds of children have come forward with reports of sexual abuse while attending day or overnight summer camps.
Survivors Seek Justice
The lack of adequate funding for foster homes and residential centers is believed to contribute to unsafe conditions, leading to poor supervision and inadequate employee screening. Some facilities are so desperate to fill positions that they overlook comprehensive background checks on employees and foster families. These systemic failures put vulnerable children at risk—children who often have no legal ability to protect themselves.
In response, several states have enacted "Child Victims Act" (CVA) legislation, allowing survivors to file claims against abusers or responsible entities, even if the statute of limitations had previously expired. These laws have prompted many individuals, including those abused decades ago, to come forward and seek justice.
