This message follows a thread today on the Har Nof list and the BS/RBS email lists, warning about child molesters operating in Har Nof and in Bet Shemesh/RBS.

We cannot stress enough that this is not an issue about other people's kids.

It is about all our children, all of whom are unfortunately at risk from child abusers.

Our working assumption is that there is a child abuser in every shul, in every school, on every street and in every extended family.

Since "Magen" opened its doors a year ago, we have received dozens of calls from parents throughout the community.

Thanks to the parents who stepped forward, our community is now a degree safer for our children than it was a year ago.

However, most children do not tell their parents, and most adults who suspect a child may be in danger, do not report it. Not to the police and not to Magen.

Therefore, please speak often and clearly to your children, of all ages, about child safety and the risks; make sure to be always sympathetic and receptive with your children, so that they always feel comfortable telling you ANYTHING that's on their minds, both mundane and (chas veshalom) very serious issues.

If you would like guidance about how to best speak with your children about child abuse, please contact Magen. Even better, please arrange a group of friends, or a shul or school group, and Magen will provide a qualified speaker to educate us all on this important safety issue.

If you wish to discuss a personal matter, Magen has set up a Hotline which is staffed weekday mornings and evenings as well as on Motsei Shabbat (see below for exact times). Anonymity on the Hotline is assured if so desired.

If you suspect a child may be at risk, please immediately call the police or social services; if you require guidance or are seeking information, you are always welcome to consult with Magen's child protection experts.

The good news is that we CAN, b'ezras Hashem, make our community a much safer place for our children.

B'vracha,

Magen