National Child Abuse Prevention Month kicks off with Pinwheels for Prevention event
Tuesday, April 8 at 7:30 p.m., communities across the state will gather together simultaneously for Pinwheels for Prevention ceremonies marking the need to prevent child abuse in Indiana.
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and in Dubois County a special ceremony will take place at the Arnold F. Habig Community Center, 1301 St. Charles Street in Jasper.
Statewide, 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 is about unity and solidarity in making children a priority,” said Amy Tempel, Dubois County Local Office Director.
By the time children come into the DCS system, they’re already victims of abuse or neglect, said Tempel. “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.”
Prevent Child Abuse Indiana says their organization sees the root causes every day of child abuse as they work with families. “Parenting is hard enough, but when families are also struggling with basic survival needs like food, shelter and keeping the lights on, it can create stress and hopelessness that escalates into 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 that should mobilize our communities to blend our resources, talents and efforts in order to protect vulnerable children,” added Tempel. “There is tremendous work being done to protect our children in the State of Indiana, but there is always opportunity for each of us to do more.”
There are currently over 80 children being served by DCS. On April 8, a special “pinwheels for prevention” garden will be planted on the lawn of the Habig Center. At 7:30 p.m., a short ceremony will highlight the importance of child abuse prevention efforts in the county. The Mayors of both Jasper and Huntingburg, Dubois County Circuit Court Judge Bill Weikert, Sheriff Donny Lampert, CASA and DCS will be participating.
Governor Mike Pence has proclaimed April as Prevent Child Abuse Awareness Month in Indiana. The governor will kick off the Marion County ceremony at the Indiana State House.
About Indiana Department of Child Services:
DCS is committed to protecting children who are victims of abuse or neglect. The agency’s primary goal is to safely keep these children at home with their families by offering appropriate support services. It also manages the child support bureau. Indiana Child Abuse/Neglect Hotline: 800.800.5556. www.in.gov/dcs
