AURORA, CO (May 23, 2019) – The Kempe Center and Foundation are pleased to announce the creation of the Colorado’s Child Abuse Response and Evaluation Network (CARENetwork) by the Colorado Legislature through HB19-1133. The CARENetwork is a program to provide quality assessments for suspected victims of child abuse and neglect by building local capacity in communities. As the Resource Center for the CARENetwork, the Kempe Center will recruit designated health care and behavioral health providers in communities across the state and train them as to the signs of child abuse and neglect and resources available to families to address risks that may lead to child abuse and neglect.
HB19-1133, sponsored by Representatives Caraveo and Pelton and Senator Fields, was signed into law by Governor Jared Polis on May 23, 2019.
“Although the session presented a new political landscape with Democrats in control of the Senate, House, and Governor’s Office, we were able to garner bipartisan support for a number initiatives for improving the safety, health and well-being of children and youth across Colorado,” said John Faught, CEO of The Kempe Foundation. “The CARENetwork will ultimately expand the safety net for children, and likely contribute to a reduction in severe incidents of child abuse and neglect, including fatalities.”
The CARENetwork is a state program within the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), and in coordination with the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS).
The Kempe Foundation worked closely with various stakeholders including the CDPHE, CDHS, American Academy of Pediatrics, Children’s Advocacy Centers, Children’s Hospital Colorado and Colorado Children’s Campaign to pass the legislation. The bill received unanimous support in both the House and Senate.
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About The Kempe Foundation
The Kempe Foundation is a 501c (3) nonprofit organization focused on the prevention and treatment of child abuse and neglect. Kempe works to keep all children safe and healthy by supporting experts in the field, advocating for children and engaging with communities. www.kempe.org
