 |
|
 |
|
|
April 2013 In This Issue Director's Letter: Join the Discussion About Child Abuse and Neglect Annual Veterans Hiring Event Now Open to the Public Five Questions with the Salzarulo Family Social Security Information Available Online Adopt Siblings Ryan, Cody and Jessica
HCJFS.org
For
Email Marketing you can trust
Follow Us...
|
Join the Discussion About
Child Abuse and Neglect
Child abuse and neglect is not a subject many people like to think about. Often, discussion about potential abuse causes us to confront uncomfortable emotions. Most people would rather assume child abuse doesn't touch their lives or the lives of their neighbors, family or friends. But here at Hamilton County Job and Family Services we think and talk about child abuse and neglect every day. The cases are heartbreaking. Children have been shaken, burned, bruised, battered, malnourished, sexually assaulted, left alone and, of course, worse. Last year, an estimated 3.4 million reports of child abuse involving 6 million children were made nationwide. In Hamilton County, HCJFS received about 65,000 calls to 241-KIDS, served more than 18,000 children and their families involved in abuse and neglect and opened about 5,000 new investigations. This month, in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month, we hope you will join the discussion. Our requests of you are small, but important. First, wear blue and post your picture on Facebook on April 10 in recognition of Wear Blue: Child Abuse is Preventable Day. You can read more about those efforts here, but the goal is simple: when someone asks why you and all your friends or co-workers are wearing blue, use the opportunity to spread awareness of child abuse and neglect. Second, consider what you can do to help. If you have the opportunity, mentor a young parent or become a foster parent or CASA. Finally, consider the possible effects of child abuse or neglect in your own life. One in 11 children in the county is currently involved with Children’s Services but studies show the number of kids suffering abuse or neglect is likely much higher. Although it is often uncomfortable to think about, the children of this community deserve our attention. Be on the lookout for common signs of child abuse and neglect and if you have any concerns or suspicions, report them to (513) 241-KIDS. You can find a list of common signs and symptoms at www.doaskdotellus.com. Although the topic can be uncomfortable, figuring out how to reduce child abuse and neglect is a discussion worth having. Together, we can reduce the abuse in this community. |
