April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

This April, communities across the nation will come together to recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month—a time dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of child abuse and the importance of prevention. In Prince William County, the Department of Social Services is leading this effort under the theme "Building a Hopeful Future: Preventing Child Abuse Together." This theme highlights the power of community partnerships in creating safe, supportive, and nurturing environments where all children can thrive. 

Child abuse affects children of all ages, backgrounds, and circumstances. Its effects can be life-altering, impacting a child's health, emotional well-being, and overall development. However, child abuse is preventable. In Prince William County, a network of community-based services works daily to support families and prevent abuse before it occurs. These services include: 

• Parent education and support programs 

• Mental health services 

• Affordable childcare 

• Early intervention programs 

• Substance use disorder treatment 

By strengthening families and promoting healthy child development, these programs are essential to reducing the risk of abuse and neglect. 

Residents are encouraged to show their support by participating in local Child Abuse Prevention Month activities: 

• Pinwheel Garden Planting at McCoart Administration Building 
  April 8, 2025 – 1 p.m. 
  
  Pinwheel gardens are a national symbol of child abuse prevention, representing the healthy, happy, and carefree childhood every child deserves. Show your commitment by wearing blue, the official color of child abuse prevention. 

• Awareness Event at Bull Run Library 
  April 15, 2025 - 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. 
  Join us to learn more about child abuse prevention and available community resources. 

• Outreach at Dale City Farmers Market 
  April 27, 2025 - 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. 
  Connect with county staff and community partners to learn how you can help strengthen families and prevent child abuse. 

The Department of Social Services is dedicated to protecting children and supporting families every day of the year. Preventing child abuse is not the responsibility of one organization alone—it takes all of us, working together, to build strong families and a hopeful future for every child. 

If you suspect child abuse or neglect, please call the Virginia Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-552-7096. 

Learn more about Prince William County's programs and services by visiting pwcva.gov/socialservices. For questions about the Department's Child Abuse Prevention Month campaign, contact Theresa Wilson at 703-792-7602.