WV DHHR Recognizes April as Child Abuse Prevention Month
March 31, 2022
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) has issued a press release in which DHHR says it joins organizations and advocates around the nation in recognizing April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. This designation highlights the importance of working together to strengthen families to prevent child abuse and neglect.
Jeff Pack, the Commissioner of DHHR’s Bureau for Social Services said the following:
“Abuse and neglect can have long‐term psychological, emotional, and physical effects. Prevention is the best way to promote the social, emotional, and developmental well‐being of children.”
Governor Jim Justice also proclaimed April 2022 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in West Virginia. Justice also spoke out about this:
“I urge all residents to prioritize the safety of our children not only during this important month, but every day of the year. Looking out for the young people of our great state today will lead to a brighter West Virginia tomorrow.”
In recognition of the start of Child Abuse Prevention Month, West Virginians are encouraged to participate in “Wear Blue Day,” on Friday, April 1. The color blue and pinwheels are the recognized symbols for child abuse prevention.
To report suspected child abuse or neglect, call DHHR’s Centralized Intake for Abuse and Neglect: 1-800-352-6513. This telephone number is available 24 hours a day, seven days-a-week.
Tim is the WVMR News Reporter. Tim is a native of Maryland who started coming to Pocahontas County in the 1970’s as a caver. He bought land on Droop Mountain off Jacox Road in 1976 and built a small house there in the early 80’s. While still working in Maryland, Tim spent much time at his place which is located on the Friars Hole Cave Preserve. Retiring in 2011 as a Lieutenant with the Anne Arundel County Police Department in Maryland, Tim finally took the plunge and moved from Maryland to his real home on Droop Mountain. He began working as the Pocahontas County Reporter for Allegheny Mountain Radio in January of 2015.