Delco Group Spreading Tween, Teen Exploitation Awareness

DELAWARE COUNTY, PA — A new effort to bring awareness of child exploitation is underway in Delaware County.

Family Support Line (FSL) recently launched a new digital public awareness campaign to prevent child exploitation among Delaware County tweens and teens.

The campaign comes as the coronavirus pandemic continues to have a negative impact on vulnerable children.

This new campaign is the first of its kind in Pennsylvania

Due to its focus on tween and teen exploitation via social media, this is the first campaign of its kind in Pennsylvania.

Messaging focuses on speaking up against sexual abuse, knowing the signs, and recognizing FSL as a resource for those affected by sexual abuse.

Eight sponsored ads on Instagram and Facebook are geographically targeted to children in Delco. Children are encouraged to click the link in FSL's bio for help and more information. The link directs users to the resources page of FSL’s newly revamped website.

FSL worked with Fiore Design, a woman-owned, Haverford-based small business based on the digital ad designs. The campaign will run through March.

"Coronavirus has isolated children from mandated reporters like teachers, coaches, school
counselors, and friends," FSL said in announcing the campaign. "This has unfortunately caused child exploitation to skyrocket, especially online. With increased screen time and most adults and children at home, child exploitation on the internet increased with reports to the national CyberTip hotline rising 103 percent. During a time when children may believe they have no outlet, FSL provides reassurance that help is still available, and healing is still possible."