Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon honored for helping prevent child abuse

SALT LAKE CITY — Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon is being given the "Champion for Child Abuse Prevention" award at the Family Support Center's blue ribbon breakfast Aug 31.

The center cites Corroon's ability as a compassionate and practical listener and provider of support to agencies that assist children and families.

"Children often go unheard," Corroon told the Deseret News. "I think it's important we do all we can for children to live safe and healthy lives."

The annual event raises funds for the center, which has worked to protect children, strengthen families and prevent child abuse in Salt Lake County for 33 years.

After a slight three-year decline, the number of children who were victims of abuse in the county increased last year to 4,468.

The Family Support Center operates three crisis nurseries — in Sugar House, West Valley City and Midvale — where, for no cost, parents can bring their children 12 and younger for a few hours — or as long as 72 hours.

Children are eligible for care when their parents need a stress break, are job hunting, have medical or mental health appointments or when an emergency arises. Some recreation centers in Salt Lake County also have free drop-off child care.

"It's great there is an option for parents to have a peaceful moment to gather their composure and not doing something they will regret the rest of their lives," Corroon said.

Call 801-955-9110 for information on the Family Support Center.

— Amy K. Stewart