Anyone who has been abused or knows of an incident of sexual abuse by members of the clergy, religious or lay staff of the Church is encouraged to report the abuse to the proper authorities.
Victims and their families are invited to come to the Church for support and assistance in healing. The Victims’ Assistance Coordinator aids in the immediate pastoral care of the victims and their families in matters of sexual misconduct. The Victims’ Assistance Coordinator also keeps the person making an allegation informed of the progress of the review and its outcome. For confidential assistance, contact the Victims’ Assistance Coordinator.
What do you need to do if you suspect abuse and where can you turn?
In addition to contacting the Victims’ Assistance Coordinator, you are first required to contact state personnel, and then immediately thereafter notify the person in charge of the institution, school, facility or agency or the designated agent of the person in charge. These are the contact numbers in our Archeparchy:
PENNSYLVANIA – Child Abuse/Neglect Hotline (24 hour): 1-800-932-0313
OHIO – Ohio Department of Job and Family Services: 1-855-OH-CHILD (855-642-4453)
TEXAS – Department of Family and Protective Services: 1-800-252-5400
WEST VIRGINIA – Department of Health and Human Resources: 1-800-352-6513
LOUISIANA – 1-855-4LA-KIDS (1-855-452-5437)
All states’ phone lines are toll free and 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Courtney Minerd
Victims’ Assistance Coordinator
724-504-9588
courtneym.ryan@gmail.com