Safe Enviornment

Youth Protection

An Ongoing Commitment to Keeping Children Safe

The Diocese of Allentown uses vigilance, education and prevention, coupled with swift and decisive action in the event of an accusation, to prevent abuse and keep children safe.  We are governed by the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, put in place by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in 2002.

To view the Diocesan site for Youth Protection please visit: https://www.allentowndiocese.org/youth-protection

To view Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People visit: https://www.usccb.org/offices/child-and-youth-protection/charter-protection-children-and-young-people

A Victim Assistance Coordinator helps victims and survivors of abuse with compassion, respect and dignity. The Victim Assistance Coordinator for the Diocese of Allentown is Ms. Wendy S. Krisak, M.A., NCC, LPC. To contact the Victim Assistance Coordinator or the Secretary for Youth Protection please use this contact information:

Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator  Wendy S. Krisak, MA, NCC, LPC ~ Direct (800) 791-9209

Secretary for Youth Protection Pamela Russo, MSW, MS ~ (610) 871-5200, Ext. 2204 or email ~ prusso@allentowndiocese.org

Safe Environment Coordinators at every school and parish oversee compliance with the many programs designed to create the safest environment for minors. The Safe Environment Coordinator for Holy Family Parish and School is Florinda Meli. 

To work or volunteer at Holy Family Parish or School you are required to complete the Diocesan and State of Pennsylvania required clearances.

Completed clearances should be returned in one complete packet to the Parish Office.  All clearances must be obtained prior to beginning employment or volunteering. You can access the correct clearance packet below.

All Volunteers, Parish Employees, Preschool & Aftercare Employees

School Employee Clearance Packet (not for Preschool or Aftercare)

CYO Coach

Vendors & Contractors

Please read the following policies before signing off on the acknowledgement pages in the packet. 

 Code ofConduct, SexualAbuse Policy, Social Media and Electronic Communications Policy

Mandated Reporter Training can be taken through the University of Pittsburgh in English or Spanish at:  https://www.reportabusepa.pitt.edu/ or https://www.reportabusepa.pitt.edu/LoginES.aspx