April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

The Huntington County Prevention of Child Abuse Coalition, along with the Child Protection Team, share an important message pertaining to child abuse and neglect in Huntington County. Both of these groups represent community agencies and departments such as; DCS, HCCSC, local law enforcement, Bowen Center, McKenzie’s Hope, Probation, Prosecutor, Parkview Huntington, Youth Services Bureau and other community partners.

“During the month of April blue pinwheels will be displayed throughout Huntington County as a reminder to us all that ALL children deserve to have safe, healthy childhoods,” stated, Kerri King, DCS. A community event will be held Monday March 25 at 10:30 a.m. in the Huntington County Court. A joint proclamation by both the City and the County will be signed, as child abuse prevention is a countywide initiative. The winner of the annual Ronald E. Mitchell Award will also be presented at this time.

It is important the community know the warning signs and risk factors of child abuse so our most vulnerable citizens can grow up happy and healthy without being victims of abuse and neglect.

Common risk factors that lead to a higher incidence of abuse or neglect within a family unit include but are not limited to:

• Financial stressors within the family
• Drug and alcohol use within the family
• Untreated mental health issues within the family
• Families that lack a strong support system, such as family and friends
• Families that lack the knowledge of resources to meet their family’s need

Often times, but not always, children will display signs of abuse or neglect. Some of the signs may include but are not limited to:

• Physical signs such as bruising, broken bones, etc.
• A change in behavior-such as being withdrawn or emotional
• A change in their grades and/or involvement with school activities
• Increased aggression or violent behaviors
• The use of drugs and/or alcohol

“Child abuse prevention is everyone’s responsibility, not only during April but throughout the year,” said Jan Williams, YSB. To learn more about child abuse prevention contact the Huntington County Department of Child Services at (260) 356-4420. Contact the Indiana Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at (800) 800-5556 to report any concerns of abuse and/or neglect. Indiana is a mandatory reporting State and it is everyone’s responsibility to report any alleged abuse or neglect.