The end of the Public Health Emergency and Continuous Enrollment
The American Rescue Plan (ARP) at ACF
The American Rescue Plan (ARP) provides critical and unprecedented support to children, families, and communities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic downturn, which have been exacerbated by historic racial injustices. As one of the largest stimulus packages in U.S. history, ARP endowed ACF with $47.5 billion in supplemental funding to further our mission and meet the needs of the children, families, and communities we serve now, as well as build a strong foundation for the next generation.
We're celebrating two years of historic ARP investments.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month
National Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), observed annually in April, recognizes the importance of individuals and communities working together to prevent sexual assault by standing with courageous survivors and working to change the culture that has allowed sexual violence to exist in our communities.
Although sexual violence is a national public health issue that can impact anyone — adults and children — women, individuals with disabilities, and racial and ethnic minority groups experience a higher burden of sexual violence. Sexual assault profoundly impacts lifelong health, opportunity, and well-being, and can have severe consequences with short-and long-term negative effects. For example, sexual violence can lead to chronic health issues for survivors, including gynecological, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and sexual health problems.
This year's theme, “Drawing Connections: Prevention Demands Equity”, calls on all individuals, communities, organizations, and institutions to change ourselves and the systems surrounding us to build racial equity and respect.
Last month, ACF demonstrated its commitment to addressing domestic violence and sexual assault by establishing the new Office of Family Violence Prevention and Services (OFVPS) to serve as senior advisor to all ACF leaders, divisions and programs while continuing the important work of funding and supporting states, territories and tribes. That commitment continues during SAAM as we focus on building equity and enhancing support services with culturally specific intervention for sexual assault survivors.
During April, we share information not only to increase awareness, but to promote ways in which individuals and communities can take direct actions to support survivors with accessing culturally specific services and resources. We encourage you to show your support and remember #PreventionDemandsEquity this #SAAM2023.