April 7, 2008

It's not too late for last minute income tax filers to improve the lives of children by using the Children's Trust Fund Michigan income tax check-off.

"A small donation will make a very big difference in the life of a child," said Richard Bearup, the trust fund's executive director. "For every dollar spent in prevention, we save up to $34 in treatment and other care."

State law reinstated the trust fund's income tax check-off for individuals to designate a contribution of $5 or more from the refund be credited to prevention efforts.

From 1983 through 2000 a check-off on Michigan's income tax form allowed an individual to donate $2 or more of his or her refund. During that time, more than 2.2 million Michigan tax returns generated over $14.8 million for the Children's Trust Fund. Since the check-off has been reintroduced, more than $815,000 has been raised, including $74,500 from income tax returns filed in February 2008.

"The people of Michigan are very generous and very supportive of efforts to help protect Michigan's children," Bearup said. "Many of these dollars are invested back into the donor's communities."

The Children's Trust Fund is the only statewide, non-profit organization in Michigan dedicated solely to the prevention of child abuse and neglect. Housed administratively within DHS, the Trust Fund supports 72 local child abuse and neglect councils, representing 82 of Michigan's 83 counties.

In addition to the income tax check-off, residents wishing to contribute to child abuse prevention efforts can do so by sending a check or money order directly to the CTF at P.O. Box 30037, Lansing, MI 48909. Residents are also encouraged to participate in local fund raising activities or volunteer efforts.

For more information about the Children's Trust Fund, go to www.michigan.gov/ctf