April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and in Marshall County a special ceremony will take place on Thursday, April 28 at 6 p.m. at the Hoosier Old Wheels Pavilion in Centennial Park to bring child advocates together to highlight prevention techniques.
Statewide, the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) is working with local Prevent Child Abuse Indiana councils, court-appointed special advocates (CASAs) as well as other child advocacy groups and local officials, to unite families, neighbors, professionals and policy-makers in the concerted effort to identify and address the issues that lead to abuse or neglect.
“This event is about unity and solidarity in making children a priority,” said Michael J. Carroll, local office director. “There are events taking place throughout the state to raise the message of prevention, which is the best way to protect children from abuse and neglect.”
By the time children come into the DCS system, they’re already victims of abuse or neglect, added Carroll. “We need all eyes and ears in the community reporting child abuse and neglect, but equally important, we need everyone – from families and extended families to neighbors and friends – working together to prevent child abuse.”
DCS, child advocacy groups and local government officials understand the realities that can lead to family crises. “Child abuse prevention is a cause the should mobilize our communities to blend our resources, talents and efforts in order to protect vulnerable children,” added Michael Carroll. “There is tremendous work being done to protect our children in the State of Indiana and here in Marshall County, but there is always opportunity for each of us to do more.”
Statewide, there are currently over 20,000 children being served by DCS, which includes 71 CHINS in Plymouth. Governor Mike Pence proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Indiana.
At 6 p.m. a short ceremony will highlight the importance of child abuse prevention efforts in Marshall County, CASA, Prevent Child Abuse Indiana and the Prosecutor’s Office will make short remarks.
