April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Orange County, Calif. (April 17, 2020) – The County of Orange Social Services Agency (SSA) invites employees and citizens of Orange County to show their support in ending childhood abuse and neglect by wearing blue on Tuesday, April 21, 2020, for National Child Abuse Prevention Month. In addition, residents are encouraged to share photos of themselves while wearing blue and tagging photos using the hashtag #GoBlueForOCKids on social media.

Every April, National Child Abuse Prevention Month works to bring awareness to the warning signs and strategies that help protect our most vulnerable children. Participation in Child Abuse Awareness Month activities helps strengthen community support systems that help keep children safe. The challenge to protect our children has never been greater
as it is now, due to the impact of the COVID-19 coronavirus crisis on families.

“With the current closures of our schools and other safe havens that employ mandated reporters, children and families have less access to critical support systems and their community as a whole,” said Second District Supervisor Michelle Steel, Chairwoman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors. She continued, “This year in particular, parents may feel a lack of support and feel more isolated. Now more than ever, it is crucial to report suspected child abuse and/or neglect if you suspect it.”

“The phrase, ‘if you see something, say something’ is especially important and relevant when it comes to the safety of our children. We continue to rely on teachers who are now providing distance learning, as well as doctors and other providers who are currently offering services through telehealth sessions, to be hyper-vigilant when connecting with children through virtual communications platforms,” stated First District Supervisor
Andrew Do, Vice Chairman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors.

“Every child deserves a nurturing family and a safe environment, free from fear, abuse and neglect,” said Third District Supervisor Donald P. Wagner. He continued, “Today we wear blue in solidarity for child abuse awareness, intervention, and prevention.”

“While April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, ensuring our children grow up in safe and loving homes is important all year long,” said Fourth District Supervisor Doug Chaffee. He added, “As we observe Child Abuse Prevention Month and beyond, think of ways you can safely help families reduce stress, take breaks and stay connected.”

“The safety of children is a shared responsibility – especially during these unprecedented times,” said Fifth District Supervisor Lisa Bartlett. She added, “We encourage you to connect with neighbors, relatives and friends by phone, text and/or online video platforms like FaceTime or Skype to check in and let them know you care.”

If you suspect or know of a child being abused, please call the County of Orange Social Services Agency Child Abuse Registry at 714-940-1000 or 800-207-4464, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The County of Orange Social Services Agency (OCSSA) provides Adult Services, Aid Programs, eligibility for public assistance benefits,
Children & Family Services and Family Self-Sufficiency programs to the County’s residents. OCSSA employs over 4,000 staff across
Orange County. For more information, visit us at http://ssa.ocgov.com/.