Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN) - 1888

Tonight's special guest is Charm Isom-Asenime, from Dallas, Texas, a survivor of child sexual abuse who's joining us for the first time to tell her story. After suffering molestation by a step-father from age 5-7, Charm was later molested by a second step-father from age 8-12. Concerning disclosure, she says, “I never told anyone, I actually spoke out about it during the #metoo movement. I've been depressed and suicidal because of my childhood trauma.” In her current life, Charm is a wife and mother to two children and has recently offered to volunteer as the Southwest Regional Director for NAASCA's Ambassador Project. She is also volunteering as a court appointed special advocate for CASA and is attending her first meeting this month. Two important issues to her are working to help change laws and for Child Protective Services (CPS) to be reformed. Her big dream that she plans to make a reality is to open a shelter for abused kids to provide the full spectrum of resources needed including medical, mental health, food, laundry, etc. "From what I've researched in the state of Texas," Charm writes, "There's not enough foster parents, so a lot of those kids who were brave enough to say something usually get sent back to their mom or dad." She continues, "I want to create a safe space for them that doesn't make them feel too uncomfortable." We are delighted to have Charm with us tonight we invite anyone to join in the conversation by calling in to the show and helping give a warm welcome to our new NAASCA family member!