Plumas observes Child Abuse Prevention Month
Plumas County has joined the many counties and states throughout the nation in observing April as Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Plumas County Department of Social Services Director Neal Caiazzo was before the Board of Supervisors earlier this month requesting the adoption of a special proclamation.
Supervisor and chair of the Board of Supervisors Michael Sanchez signed the proclamation following approval.
According to Caiazzo in the proclamation, child abuse and neglect are serious social problems that affect many families in Plumas County.
All adults and caregivers have a responsibility, as neighbors, community members and citizens of the county, to help create healthy, safe and nurturing environments for all children and youth, he stated.
Success in preventing child abuse in Plumas depends on strong collaborative partnerships among human services agencies, child protective services, community-based organizations, schools, law enforcement and faith and business community partners.
The Plumas County Child Abuse Prevention Council has provided a collaborative forum since 1998, according to Caiazzo. It services as planning and for implementation of child abuse prevention programs.
Supervisors acknowledge the work that has been done by many agencies and individuals in the county that helps protect children. This work also serves to strengthen families and eliminate the social factors that contribute to family dysfunction, child abuse and neglect.
Supervisors also recognize the work that is done by county social workers. Their mission includes protecting at-risk children, and to keep them from harm in a home setting.
Supervisors have declared their commitment to promotion policies and practices that support community-wide efforts to strengthen families and reduce the incidences of child abuse and neglect in our county, according to Caiazzo.
Those observing Child Abuse Prevention Month are wearing the blue ribbon or displaying a pinwheel throughout the month. They are a positive reminder that together “we can prevent child abuse and keep children safe,” Caiazzo said.