DOH Leon Marks National Child Abuse Prevention Month 

April 20, 2022

DOH Leon Recognizes National Child Abuse Prevention Month

April is a time for all Leon County residents to step up and help to build caring connections, supportive environments and positive experiences for all children and families

Tallahassee, Fla.-- The Florida Department of Health in Leon County (DOH Leon) is proud to join key partners in recognizing April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Childhood trauma, including child abuse and neglect, can have a devastating and lifelong impact on one’s health and wellbeing. Preventing child abuse requires community awareness, engagement, and prompt reporting of suspected abuse to authorities.

"Child and family well-being is one of DOH Leon’s top priorities,” said Sandon S. Speedling, MHS, CPM, DOH Leon Interim Health Officer.  “It is part of our mission to make sure every child in Leon County grows up safe, healthy, and thriving in a nurturing and resilient community.”

In 2018, the Children's Advocacy Centers in Florida served over 34,000 children who were victims of child abuse or neglect. 35% of the victims suffered from sexual abuse; 27% from physical abuse; and 17% suffered from neglect.

This month, blue pinwheel gardens are glistening throughout Leon County, including the Florida State Capitol, to enhance awareness about child abuse, promote prevention, and celebrate the lives of children.

DOH Leon believes ensuring a safe, trauma free childhood is the responsibility of all adults and honors friends, neighbors, educators, faith leaders, business owners, health care workers, counselors and many others who help promote the well-being of children.

If you suspect that a child is being abused or neglected, please call the Florida Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873). This toll-free number is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week with counselors waiting to help you.

For more information about child abuse prevention, visit the Florida Department of Children and Families at: https://www.myflfamilies.com/

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Written by:

Pamela Saulsby | Public Information Officer