Awareness Month
April is Child Abuse Prevention & Awareness Month. The Doddridge County Family Resource Network has been working to spread awareness toward the common purpose of preventing child abuse and delivering a message about the importance of protecting children, supporting families and strengthening communities. Thanks to our DCHS student volunteers and DCMS Leo Club, Pinwheels for Prevention gardens have popped up throughout the community. These pinwheel gardens serve as a reminder of this year’s awareness campaign- “Growing a Better Tomorrow for All Children, Together”. Everyone has a role to play to ensure that children have safe, stable and nurturing relationships and environments. For more information on this program, please contact the DCFRN, [email protected]
CHILD ABUSE can broadly be defined as an act—or failure to act—that results in a child’s serious harm or risk of harm, including physical or emotional harm, exploitation or death.
NEGLECT occurs when a caretaker fails to provide for a child’s basic needs.
CONSEQUENCES of abuse and neglect can be profound and can last long into the life cycle. However, once a child’s safety is assured, thriving after abuse is possible. Every child has a right to a safe childhood free of violence.
RESOURCES If you think a child is in immediate danger, call 911. To report abuse and neglect of a child or adult call 1-800-352-6513. This WV hotline is operated 24/7.