The Los Angeles Chargers and the Spanos family presented Stuart House with a $5,000 check on Tuesday to aid in their critical work in the community.
Stuart House is a program of the Rape Treatment Center at Santa Monica – UCLA Medical Center, designed specifically to serve the special needs of sexually abused children and their families. Stuart House co-locates LAPD detectives, Deputy District Attorneys, City Attorneys and DCFS to work as a team to protect children. Stuart House also provides comprehensive treatment services.
Hall of Fame running back LaDainian Tomlinson was on hand to present the check, touring the facility while meeting with staff members and LAPD detectives. LT left inspired by those he met, knowing they are making a tangible impact on those in need.
"It's really great what Stuart House is doing, especially for the kids who are victims," Tomlinson said. "This program is needed throughout the entire country. It's great that so many people in this community are involved, like LAPD and the DA's office. It's really inspiring what I've seen today."
This is the second visit the Chargers have made to the Rape Treatment Center this year. In the offseason, they co-sponsored a "Conference for Coaches" put on by the organization's Men's Leadership Council. Former Charger and current TV personality Marcellus Wiley addressed the 200 attendees, speaking about the influence coaches can have on young men.
Stuart House is an innovative, model program and an exemplary public/private partnership created to enhance the treatment of sexually abused children. Stuart House brings together police, prosecutors, and other child protection professionals to work as a team and expedite investigations and child protection actions. Stuart House also provides comprehensive treatment and support services, including 24-hour emergency medical care, expert medical forensic evidentiary examinations, advocacy, crisis counseling, and long-term child/family therapy services that help children and their families heal from the traumatic effects of sexual abuse. Stuart House offers these services in a child-friendly setting designed to make children feel welcome and safe. All Stuart House services are free. For more information, please visit The Rape Foundation website at therapefoundation.org
