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 Proclamations Proc. 7538 My Administration is committed to promoting effective policies that pro- tect children from harm while strengthening and supporting families. Pro- moting healthy marriages, and teaching responsible fatherhood and mother- hood, are key priorities of my Administration. Last year, I worked with the Congress to provide an additional $70 million for the Promoting Safe and Stable Families Program, which is helping States ensure children's safety, permanency, and well-being. This program is designed to strengthen fami- lies at risk and prevent abuse and neglect. My 2003 budget includes a sub- stantial increase of $130 million for this essential program. The problem of child abuse requires a continuing national commitment, and we must remain vigilant in working to provide safety and security to each young person in our society. Government alone cannot prevent child abuse. Child abuse prevention re- quires partnerships among Federal, State, and local governments, faith- based and community-based organizations, schools, law enforcement, and social service agencies. All of these organizations must work together with parents to protect children and help build healthy families and commu- nities where children can reach their potential. Every April, communities across the country join to raise public awareness about child abuse, to provide information about how to prevent it, and to assist families in need of support, recovery, and encouragement. During Na- tional Child Abuse Prevention Month, and throughout the year, I encourage all Americans to find ways to cherish our children, and strengthen our fam- ilies. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 2002 as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. I call upon all Americans to observe this month by supporting the hard work of those who ensure our children's safety, and by playing an active role in creating a safer, healthier environment for our children's growth. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-sixth. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 7538 of April 4, 2002 National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, 2002 By the President of the United States of Arnerica A Proclamation Throughout our Nation's history, patriotic Americans have responded to the call to defend our freedoms. During war and peace, American soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines have stood vigilant, prepared, and willing to put themselves in harm's way to protect our Nation. We owe the liberties we have today to their brave service. 65

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