Oldenburg, In. — Child abuse and neglect, which can result in physical and emotional harm and even death, are serious issues that occur far too often in the United States and Indiana.
For example, 77 children died from abuse and neglect in Indiana between July 1, 2014, and June 30, 2015, according to the Indiana Department of Child Services’(DCS) most recent Child Abuse and Neglect Annual Report of Child Fatalities.
As Indiana residents, it is our job to protect the children living in our communities and ensure they are unharmed.
To help bring attention to this issue, we, along with the rest of the United States, recognize April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, which increases awareness, teaches warning signs and provides solutions to prevent child abuse.
In Indiana, the DCS also provides a number of prevention programs to help combat the issue.
- Healthy Families Indiana is a voluntary home visitation program designed to promote healthy families and children through a variety of services, including child development, access to health care and parent education.
- Community Partners for Child Safety is a statewide prevention program designed to strengthen the family unit and build support services. It is a voluntary, free and home-based service to connect families with resources.
- Youth Service Bureaus and Safe Place provide a variety of programs aimed at preventing delinquent behavior in teenagers.
While these programs are in place, you can also play a part in preventing child abuse in our state by calling the DCS Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-800-5556 if you suspect a child is a victim of abuse or neglect.
Click here for more information on National Child Abuse Prevention Month.
