Mesa County Department of
Human Services (MCDHS) joins countless others across the nation to highlight
the issues of child abuse & neglect during the month of April and the
importance of everyone taking responsibility in preventing abuse and neglect in
our community.
MCDHS hopes to raise awareness that effective
child abuse prevention succeeds because of partnerships created among social
service agencies, families, neighbors, schools, religious organizations, law
enforcement agencies and the business community. Parents, families and community members can
and must help reduce child abuse and neglect in Mesa County by promoting the
benefits of seeking out groups, agencies and resources that can assist a parent
in providing a loving, supportive and violence-free home.
Mesa County Department of Human Services is
advocating a 3 prong approach to preventing child abuse.
Awareness: Trust your instincts if an interaction with an
adult and child looks suspicious report it to the Abuse Hotline or Law
Enforcement-
Reporting: If in doubt report it out; Mesa County Child
Abuse or Neglect Hotline 970 242 1211;
Statewide Child Abuse or Neglect Hotline
1-844-CO-4-KIDS.
Prevention: Proactive approach to prevent the abuse before it
happens. Learn the signs of stressed parent and offer resources to avert the
abuse or neglect of a child.
“Everyone in our community should become
involved in supporting families to provide a safe, nurturing environment for
all children,” stated Tracey Garchar, Mesa County Department of Human Services
Director. “Child Abuse Prevention Month
is an opportunity for us to recognize that we all play an important part in
promoting the social and emotional well-being of children and families in our
community,” added Garchar.
Some events planned
to recognize National Child Abuse Prevention month are:
Planting
of Pinwheel Gardens in Mesa County in front of DHS & WFC Monday April 18 at
Noon
Colorado
Hotline Phone Display at Mesa Mall in the JC Penny wing throughout the month of
April
