April Is Child Abuse Prevention Month

MAGNOLIA, Texas - April 7, 2020 -- Nearly 200,000 Texas children are reported as abused or neglected every year, according to Child Protective Services, a division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. April is child abuse prevention month in Texas and in the nation.

'It's a time to focus on ways not only to protect children but also to prevent abuse from ever occurring,' said Jake Kelly, Vice President & General Counsel. 'This is our opportunity to make a difference in young lives.'

Neglect is the most frequent form of child abuse, according to DFPS the state agency charged with protecting children.

'Yes, children die simply because they're put in situations where they are not supervised,' said Mr. Kelly. 'But parent's are not alone.'

According to Montgomery County officials we have already seen a 35% increase in domestic violence during this time of crisis with COVID-19. 'I would urge everyone to come together and protect the children of Montgomery County, ' proclaimed Kelly. The Web site www.HelpAndHope.org contains a wealth of information on how to prevent child abuse, where to go to get help with parenting skills, and what to do if you suspect a child is in danger. Additionally, volunteers from Bison are in the community sharing information from Child Abuse Prevention Kits.

Every April, communities all over Texas and the nation observe Child Abuse Prevention Month, raising awareness of child abuse and neglect while promoting resources to support families. We invite you to join this campaign, and we encourage you to use the materials on the website provided below to spread the word in your community.

Contact your local Child Protective Services office or https://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Site_Map/websites.asp for more information.