Who is responsible for protecting children? Everyone!
October is Child Abuse Prevention Month
October is recognized by Children’s Aid Societies across the province as Child Abuse Prevention Month. During this time, Societies are spreading the message that it takes a community to keep children and youth safe. From individuals who call Children’s Aid out of concern for a child’s well-being to community partners who work alongside the Societies, we all have a role to play in protecting the most vulnerable members of our society.
“Every child or youth deserves to grow up without the fear of abuse or neglect. While keeping young people safe is our utmost concern, we understand the importance of providing the necessary support to families that may enable them to remain together”, said Mark Kartusch, Executive Director of Highland Shores Children’s Aid.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Children’s Aid Societies raising awareness during October for Child Abuse Prevention. Community members are encouraged to wear a purple ribbon to help create awareness of the fact that by working together we can all help to keep children safe and provide support to families in need. Our community is made stronger when we work together to assist those who are the most vulnerable”, added Kartusch.
Last year, Children’s Aid Societies in Ontario received more than 167,900 referrals about possible abuse and neglect of children and youth. Children’s Aid Societies completed over 85,000 investigations and 47,078 families received ongoing protection services from a Children’s Aid after investigation.
Vulnerable families can become overwhelmed. Struggles with poverty, poor mental health, substance abuse, social isolation or a legacy of prior family violence can, in some cases, be linked to family crises and abuse. Children’s Aid works with families early on, providing essential support that helps stop crises and family violence before they occur, allowing families to heal and strengthen.
With an increased focus on working with families earlier, in 90% of cases children were able to remain at home while Children’s Aid Societies worked with families to strengthen their parenting capacity and create a more stable future for their children.
Learn more about how you can help to protect children and youth by visiting www.highlandshorescas.com or www.useyourvoice.ca. If you have a concern about a child or are in need of support, contact Highland Shores Children’s Aid in:
Belleville – 613-962-9291 Cobourg – 905-372-1821
North Hastings – 613-332-2425 Quinte West – 613-965-6261
-30-
For additional information contact: Bonnie Perrigard, Communications, Community and Stakeholder Relations Coordinator, Highland Shores Children’s Aid, 613-962-9291, ext. 2202 or 800-267-0570, ext. 2202.
