#parent | #kids | #childabuse | Butte County recognizes the month of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month


BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Butte County’s Child Abuse Prevention Council announced they are standing with Butte County Board of supervisors who are issuing April 2020 as Child Abuse Prevention Month. 

Read their official statement below: 

“We stand side-by-side with the Butte County Board of Supervisors who has issued a Resolution Recognizing April 2020 as Child Abuse Prevention Month and ask that residents join us in a renewed and continuous effort to eliminate child abuse in all its forms, with added and particular awareness amid the current pandemic.

We recognize the tremendous strain and serious mental health impact the pandemic places on many homes. With unemployment; worries about financial obligations and possible future housing instability; health concerns; the shelter-in-place directive; and the difficulty in finding some needed supplies at stores, many are functioning under a high level of anxiety. Some of these same people were only beginning to establish their “new normal” after being displaced by the Camp Fire. Others struggle to work from home while acting as school teachers and being sure their children are supported and occupied in healthy ways. In like manner, children of all ages are at home without their normal routines, connections with teachers and friends, play dates, after school sports, or other programs.

Reports of child abuse are down 25% throughout Butte County and 44% statewide. While, under normal circumstances this might be viewed as a good thing, it is causing social service workers and those who care for the welfare of children, a great deal of concern about what is not being seen and not being reported. Mandated reports such as teachers, coaches, and medical providers are no longer seeing children as they normally would and there is a clear likelihood that some children are experiencing neglect and/or physical, emotional and sexual abuse at home – particularly those already living in dysfunctional family situations.

The National Crime Agency has also warned parents to have a heightened awareness of online sexual abuse in the forms of content and exploitation.

We ask that essential workers, and all individuals, report any perceived abuse by calling 800.400.0902. They should know that when reporting any reasonable suspicion, an individual is immune from criminal or civil action, and can save a child.

We ask and invite neighbors, educators, and ministers to continue reach out to those who may be in need, even if it’s just a phone call. We appreciate and are warmed by those sewing masks, participating meal distribution, volunteer shopping and delivery services, in community bear or egg window display hunts and drive-by greetings, and so many acts of support and kindness demonstrated throughout our neighborhoods.

We are also grateful for the essential workers as well as many community organizations that are working to provide supports and resources to strengthen individuals and families in this difficult time.”

Board of Supervisors Resolution 20 037 (Text)





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