COLUMBIA, S.C. — Gov. Henry McMaster declared April as Child Abuse Prevention Month alongside other child-serving organizations and agencies today in a press conference along with S.C. Department of Social Services State Director Michael Leach, S.C. State Child Advocate Amanda Whittle, and Children’s Trust CEO Sue Williams.
“I’m grateful for all of the public servants and their partners who work every day to serve South Carolina’s children who are vulnerable to abuse and neglect,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. “Each year, Child Abuse Prevention Month gives us the unique opportunity to raise awareness and educate the public about the best ways to identify and prevent child abuse, helping us move closer to our ultimate goal of ending this scourge on our society.”
The chances of abuse and neglect decrease when children live in families and communities that can meet their physical and emotional needs. South Carolina ranks 39th in the country for child well-being, according to the Kids Count Data Book.
Child Abuse Prevention Month, held annually in April, is the opportunity for organizations, governmental agencies, businesses, communities, faith-based groups and individuals to raise awareness about the importance of preventing child abuse and neglect. Children’s Trust leads the statewide campaign, this year partnering with nearly 150 organizations and agencies.
“Trauma and the inability to meet basic needs are two underlying factors that can lead to abuse and neglect,” said Michael Leach, DSS State Director. “Families in poverty and families who are in marginalized populations are especially vulnerable and find themselves at a much higher risk. Parents must have the knowledge, skills and resources they need to care for their children. It is within our power to help promote the social, economic and emotional well-being of children and youth to prevent child maltreatment within families and communities.”
“Child Abuse Prevention Month provides an invaluable opportunity to raise awareness about protective factors to prevent child abuse,” said Amanda Whittle, State Child Advocate and State Director of the Department of Children’s Advocacy. “One caring adult can change a child’s story. May we challenge ourselves to be the kind of people that children can count on to make a difference.”
Research shows that adversity in a child’s life can have long-lasting negative health and social effects into adulthood. Sixty-two percent of adults in South Carolina report at least one adverse childhood experience as a child, according to research conducted by Children’s Trust.
“We believe anyone can be a champion for children,” said Sue Williams, CEO of Children’s Trust. “Everyone, from state agencies to individuals, has a role in preventing abuse and neglect. We know that children are safe, and families are stronger when communities wrap support around those who need help.”
As the only statewide organization focused primarily on preventing child abuse and neglect, Children’s Trust partners with organizations to deliver evidence-based parenting programs, as well as leads trainings and advocates for policies that promote the well-being of children and families.
To learn more about how to participate in Child Abuse Prevention Month, visit scChildren.org/capmonth. To make a report of neglect or abuse of a child in South Carolina, please call 1-888-CARE4US or visit dss.sc.gov to submit non-emergency reports through the online portal.
About the S.C. Department of Social Services
The Department of Social Services’ mission is to serve South Carolina by promoting the safety, permanency and well-being of children and vulnerable adults, helping individuals achieve stability and strengthening families. For more information on the agency and the services provided, visit dss.sc.gov.
About the S.C. Department of Children’s Advocacy
The Department of Children’s Advocacy’s mission is to champion advocacy, accountability and service to improve outcomes for children served by state agencies in South Carolina. For more information, visit childadvocate.sc.gov.
About Children’s Trust of South Carolina
Children’s Trust is the only statewide organization focused on preventing child abuse and neglect in South Carolina. It leads and supports a network that shares our belief that all children should thrive, live in secure families and be surrounded by supportive communities. Children’s Trust coordinates the state’s efforts for the Strengthening Families Program; Triple P (Positive Parenting Program); S.C. Adverse Childhood Experiences Initiative; Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting; Child Abuse Prevention Month; and KIDS COUNT. For more information, visit scChildren.org.
