Lacey proclaims April as Child Abuse Prevention Month

The City of Lacey joined the nation in dedicating April to the prevention of child abuse during its council meeting on April 16.

Mayor Andy Ryder, on behalf of the city council, officially proclaimed April 2024 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Lacey.

The proclamation highlighted the city's commitment to safeguarding children. It emphasizes the importance of creating safe, stable, and nurturing environments to foster the healthy growth and development of all children.

“Lacey recognizes our future rests in the hands of our most vulnerable and cherished assets - our children,” the proclamation read.

Recognizing child abuse, neglect, and trauma as severe public health issues, the proclamation underscored the community's responsibility to equip parents, caregivers, and all adults with the necessary support, knowledge, and resources to ensure that children thrive.

A key aspect of effective child abuse prevention strategies, as noted in the proclamation, lies in collaborative efforts among various entities, including agencies, schools, religious organizations, law enforcement, healthcare providers and the business community.

To recognize the proclamation, Roger Jones, the Community Engagement Director for Family Education & Support Services (FESS), attended the meeting and expressed gratitude for the city's recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month and its continued support over the years.

Jones distributed blue pinwheels to the council members during the meeting, symbolizing national solidarity in preventing child abuse.

"I'd like to give each of you one of these and a couple of brochures of what our agency does to help prevent child abuse as well as working with families with services and that type of thing,” said Jones. “We're glad to be of service in Lacey and the area as well as help families become stronger and more successful.”

FES is actively involved in initiatives aimed at preventing child abuse and supporting families.