CHICAGO – Join the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), Prevent Child Abuse Illinois, Hospital Sisters Health System, the Poshard Foundation for Abused Children, elected officials, child welfare stakeholders and more for a month-long observance to share child abuse and neglect prevention awareness messages and promote prevention efforts during Child Abuse Prevention Month in April. This year’s theme, Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention, is a call to action to commit to a future where every child grows up safe, loved and full of hope.
“This year’s theme goes hand-in-hand with our department’s vision: for every child and youth to grow and thrive in a family,” said Illinois DCFS Director Heidi E. Mueller. “We know that when parents are supported, their families are stronger and safer – and we also know that children do better when they are able to remain at home safely. In 2024 we served 4,034 families through our family preservation programs, enabling them to stay together. DCFS also connected parents to counseling, substance abuse recovery, mental health, Family Advocacy Centers and other services so 5,374 children could return home. By working together with our community partners and connecting families to the services and programs that meet their unique needs DCFS continues to strengthen and support families.”
“This year’s theme, Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention, emphasizes the importance of prevention efforts that support families, strengthen communities and ensure every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential,” said Prevent Child Abuse Illinois Executive Director Tarra Winters. “By investing in prevention, we not only protect children, but also provide families with the strength and resilience to overcome challenges. When families thrive, communities thrive. It is through prevention that we can ensure a bright future for generations to come.”
To heighten awareness, Illinois DCFS will host events across the state in observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month. All Illinoisans can get involved and show their commitment to ending child abuse by wearing blue on April 4, posting pictures on social media, tagging Illinois DCFS in their posts and using the hashtags #GreatChildhoods and #GoBlueIllinois