Slideshow: Go Blue Day for Child Abuse Prevention Month
(KBSI) – April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. The Department of Social Services (DSS) Children’s Division asks you to join in raising awareness about child abuse and neglect prevention in your community.
This year’s theme is “Thriving Children & Families: Prevention with Purpose.”
“Members of the community play a vital role in helping our agency keep Missouri’s children
safe,” said Darrell Missey, Children’s Division Director. “A call of concern to the Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline is often the first time the Children’s Division learns of any potential risks or struggles for a family.”
Anyone can make that call.
The Children’s Division received 54,515 reports of suspected child abuse and neglect in Fiscal Year 2021. That resulted in contact with families to ensure child safety and to assess the
family’s needs for services and supports.
Communities around the state host activities throughout the month of April to recognize the
importance of Child Abuse Prevention.
Resources and additional information about working together to keep children safe can also be found on the Department of Social Services website, including child safety resources, information about safe sleep practices, and the services available to families to help children remain safely at home, when possible.
The Department of Social Services strongly encourages anyone who suspects child abuse or
neglect to call the toll-free hotline at 1-800-392-3738. The Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline is answered 24-hours a day, every day, all year round.
Tap here to view the calendar of event for the Missouri Department of Social Services.
