The initiative centers on a series of television public-service announcements ("PSAs") designed to reach parents and adults who interact with children at risk for potential emotional problems related to the events of 9/11, as well as the related War on Terror and the ongoing threat of terrorism. The spots were created pro bono by BBDO New York.
"The threat of terrorism is an inescapable reality, especially in cities such as New York," said NYU Child Study Center Director Harold S. Koplewicz, MD. "Everywhere we turn, we find a vivid reminder of the dangers we face -- from the recent bombings in Spain, to reports on new threats of terrorism around the world."
Added Dr. Koplewicz, "Even those images that are designed to heal the city, like the unveiling of designs for the Memorial and Freedom Tower, are tangible reminders of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. These constant indications about the dangerous world we live in are difficult to cope with. This campaign, which has been generously supported by Bear Stearns, hopefully will serve as a reminder that we all must remain mindful of the potentially negative impact these images have on the youngest and most vulnerable among us."
Each PSA, all of which are narrated by Whoopi Goldberg, emphasizes the warning signs and directs the public to a website, AboutOurKids.org, and a toll-free hotline, 1-866-NYU CHILD (866-698-2445), where additional information on symptoms and treatment options is available.
"The Bear Stearns Charitable Foundation is proud to continue our working relationship with the NYU Child Study Center," said Bear Stearns Chairman and CEO James E. Cayne. "I wis
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Contact: Catherine Watts Collier
Catherine.Collier@med.nyu.edu
212-263-3652
New York University Child Study Center
24-Mar-2004