DCS prioritizes prevention and strengthening communities during Child Abuse Prevention Month

The Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) and community partners across the state are working together this month to raise awareness and educate the public in honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month. DCS encourages all individuals and organizations to play a role in making Indiana a better place for children and families – not just in April – but throughout the year. 

Gov. Mike Braun has proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month to call attention to efforts to support families and keep children safe. View the governor’s proclamation here. 

“All Hoosier children deserve strong, loving and supportive homes,” Gov. Braun said. “Prevention is our best defense against child abuse and neglect, and everyone has a vital role to play in keeping children safe, healthy and happy.”

In collaboration with The Villages and Prevent Child Abuse Indiana (PCAIN), DCS kicked off Child Abuse Prevention Month with an event at the Indiana Statehouse. Speakers included Gov. Mike Braun, DCS Director Adam Krupp, The Villages Director and CEO Shannon Schumacher, Indiana CareSource President Dr. Cameual Wright and PCAIN Director Jeff Wittman. View photos from the event here.

The theme this year is Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention. Speakers shared their hopes for Hoosier children and families, and how the community can work together in order to increase prevention efforts.

“Our goal is to have support and resources available so that families never have to come in contact with us,” DCS Director Adam Krupp said. “This month is about sharing those resources, raising awareness and getting people to commit to their communities so that every Hoosier family can succeed and thrive.”   

On April 25, DCS and Firefly Children and Family Alliance will partner for an event to dye the Indianapolis Central Canal blue for Child Abuse Prevention Month. Director Krupp and Firefly Children and Family Alliance President Tina Cloer will speak to attendees about the importance of prevention and stopping families from falling through the gaps.  

DCS local offices and partners will also host special events supporting education and prevention. To view the statewide Child Abuse Prevention Month calendar of events, click here. DCS will share resources, photos and videos related to prevention on Instagram, X and YouTube. 

Anyone who suspects a child has been neglected or abused should call the Indiana Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 800-800-5556. For more information and resources on preventing child abuse and neglect, click here.