PINELLAS TAX COLLECTOR OFFICES TAKE A STAND AGAINST CHILD ABUSE

PINELLAS COUNTY, FL – The Pinellas County Tax Collector’s office is joining forces with local non-profit, Lauren’s Kids, this August to help spread awareness and raise funds for child sexual abuse prevention.

Sexual abuse is an uncomfortable topic – but it’s something that can happen to anyone – regardless of culture, religion, or social and economic status. Everyone can help put a stop to sexual assault, harassment, and abuse.

Customers visiting a Pinellas tax collector office in August can support this Florida non-profit by donating money or purchasing the Lauren’s Kids specialty license plate. Those who choose to make a monetary donation will receive a small thank-you gift in return. Customers who switch to the specialty plate this month will be entered into a drawing for a $25 Visa or American Express gift card presented by Lauren’s Kids.

“Unfortunately, this is an issue we don’t talk about enough and it happens right here in Pinellas. That’s why we are teaming up with Lauren’s Kids again,” said Pinellas County Tax Collector, Charles W. Thomas. “It’s important for our organization to give back to this community and we are honored to help increase awareness and educate folks about sexual abuse prevention.”

It is important for a community to work together to prevent sexual abuse because unfortunately, no one is immune. The facts tell the true story – before turning 18, 1 in 3 girls and 1 in 5 boys will be sexually abused in the United States. Today, in the U.S., there are more than 42 million childhood sexual abuse survivors. Through proper education and resources, 95% of sexual abuse is preventable.

Founded by Lauren Book in 2007, Lauren’s Kids empowers children and families to prevent and overcome the trauma of sexual abuse. Not only is Book a childhood sexual abuse survivor, but she is also a former teacher, best-selling author, and Florida State Senator. Book’s own traumatic experiences fueled her mission to prevent childhood sexual abuse and help other survivors to heal.

Funds raised for Lauren’s Kids stay local, with donations going towards programs focused on education and awareness in Pinellas such as training and abuse prevention curriculums for local teachers. In 2022, tax collector offices in Pinellas raised more than $1,500 for Lauren’s Kids. Find more information about Lauren’s Kids at laurenskids.org.

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ABOUT THE PINELLAS COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR’S OFFICE: The Pinellas County Tax Collector’s Office is a constitutionally elected office. Responsibilities include collecting and distributing state and local taxes and providing driver license and motor vehicle registration services to Pinellas County residents. For more information, visit pinellastaxcollector.gov.