Charles City/New Kent group observing April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and Charles City/New Kent Healthy Families is partnering with the Virginia Coalition for Child Abuse Prevention, the Virginia Department of Social Services, and Prevent Child Abuse Virginia to raise awareness about the role everyone can play in valuing children and strengthening their families.

Thousands of Virginia children suffer abuse or neglect every year. In FY 2012, there were 52,675 children reported as possible victims of abuse and/or neglect. The Virginia Department of Social Services found that 6,365 children were maltreated, and of those, 35 children died as a result of abuse and/or neglect.

The statistics can be overwhelming, but they are reminders that no one can afford to look the other way. Everyone can find a way to make a difference so that children reach their potential. The 2013 Child Abuse Prevention Month theme, Insure Their Future: Invest in Children, promotes the need for meaningful involvement by parents, concerned individuals, communities and organizations.

This year on April 26 to help raise awareness in our community about the role everyone can play in valuing children and strengthening families, the Charles City/New Kent Healthy Families program is hosting the 4th Annual Family Fun Day event. It takes a community to raise a strong family and together with our partners, we invite you to join us for an afternoon of fun, food, and family time.

The children in our community need strong, healthy families that can provide for their physical, emotional, and developmental needs. Charles City/New Kent Healthy Families works with parents to provide support and education about child development and the needs of children because strong families empower our community. Our families are our most valuable resource. When we work together to ensure that children are allowed to reach their full potential, everyone benefits.

Please join us on April 26 at the Charles City Social Center from 4-7 p.m. for games, entertainment, and free food. Help our community to build strong families. For more information, call 966-8727.