You CAN Make A Difference –
April is Child Abuse Awareness Month 2006
Child abuse cuts across all socio-economic groups, races and religions. Most people who abuse or neglect their children are ordinary people whose lack of parenting capacity or stressors overwhelms their coping skills. Child abuse and neglect rarely stop without help from outside the immediate family.
North Carolina citizens are mandated by law to report suspected child abuse and neglect to the Department of Social Services in the county where the child lives. The law also states that reporters can remain anonymous and only need to have the suspicion that a child is being abused or neglected. North Carolina statutes prohibit the disclosure of specific information contained in child protective services reports and juvenile case records, including the identity of the reporter.
Throughout the month of April, our community will become more aware of the many children who suffer from child abuse and neglect, locally and nationally. Blue ribbons will be worn as a reminder of the more than 111,000 cases of child abuse reported in North Carolina last year. Speeches will be made about the 31 children who died in North Carolina last year as a result of child abuse. Information will be distributed, articles will be written, and banners will be hung reminding the community of the detrimental effects abuse and neglect can have on a child.
Child abuse must be prevented, and with your help, it can be. You CAN Make A Difference…If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, Make A Difference and protect the child from further abuse. Call your local Child Protective Agency - in Mecklenburg County, call 704-336-CARE.
You CAN make a difference:
- Be a nurturing parent!
- Help a friend, neighbor, or relative if they are having difficulty with their family.
- Get involved – advocate for services to help families.
- Volunteer at a local child abuse prevention program.
- Help to develop parenting resources at your local library or community center.
- Ask for help if you need it!