Millville Fire and EMS learn lasting impacts of childhood trauma

Researchers have known for some time that children who experience abuse and neglect will continue to be negatively affected even as adults. Members of the Millville Fire Department and the Millville EMT Department gathered July 6 as part of an initiative from Delaware-based nonprofit Children and Families First to grow awareness of ACEs, which stands for adverse childhood experiences. Laura Rimmer, development coordinator for Children and Families First, presented a talk on Adverse Childhood Experiences: Nature, Nurture, Neurons and Next Steps.

Rimmer spoke about the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study showing direct links between adverse childhood experiences and chronic disease, mental illness, violence, substance abuse and shortened lifespan. Attendees at the presentation expressed shock over not only the 20 years off a person’s lifespan that can result from a higher ACEs score, but also the prevalence of ACEs throughout all communities and economic brackets.

“The goal of these presentations is not only to expand awareness of childhood trauma, but to show the community that it’s possible to prevent and overcome these experiences,” said Rimmer. “In working with families you see clearly that what may have previously been viewed as a discipline issue, is the child reacting to an incarcerated parent, a child who is hungry, or a child who is being neglected and abused.”

Children and Families First is a statewide organization offering free programs throughout Delaware with campuses in Wilmington, Hockessin, Dover, Georgetown and Seaford. Through programs which span mental health, healthcare, education and social services, and working together to support families through major life phases, Children and Families First strives to be a source of prevention, change and multigenerational impact.

“What I hope is that after this presentation the attendees feel more empowered on how we can change these dire numbers, how we can work together to better understand and help these children,” said Rimmer, “and that our mutual commitment to prevention and trauma informed care will change destinies now and well into future generations. I was very grateful for the opportunity to present to the Millville Fire and EMS Departments, and I applaud their willingness to learn more about the topic, proving their commitment to protecting the health and safety of the communities they serve.”

Children & Families First will continue to organize ACEs awareness presentations for the community. For more information on scheduling a presentation, contact Laura Rimmer at Laura.Rimmer@cffde.org or call 302-604-6277.