Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 17, 2024 CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, [email protected] Children Trust Michigan raises awareness LANSING, Mich. — Children Trust Michigan is recognizing the importance of preventing child abuse and neglect with a month of activities that will culminate with a special ceremony at 10 a.m., Tuesday, April 23, at the State Capitol. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Activities and initiatives planned throughout the month will center on the symbolic blue-and-silver pinwheel of Prevent Child Abuse America, which serves as a visual representation that everyone plays a role in providing children with a bright future. Participants have been asked to share information on social media, using the hashtags #CAPMonth2024, #MIWearsBlue and #StrengtheningFamilies. Children Trust Michigan, housed within MDHHS, was established by the Michigan Legislature in 1982. It serves as a voice for Michigan’s children and families and promotes their health, safety and welfare by funding effective local programs and services that prevent child abuse and neglect. “Our department is devoted to improving the safety and well-being of Michigan children, as outlined in our Keep Kids Safe Action Agenda,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “We are working with lawmakers, police, judges and other child welfare system leaders to do everything in our power to make Michigan the safest place in America to raise kids and nurture families.” “Child abuse prevention is a community responsibility and Michigan is committed to ensuring all children grow up safe, healthy, educated and prepared to reach their full potential,” said Suzanne Greenberg, executive director of Children Trust Michigan. “The blue and silver pinwheels displayed in April, and throughout the year, symbolize the health and happiness all children deserve. We encourage everyone across the state to help raise awareness this month about the impact child abuse and neglect has and to help us create more stable environments and brighter futures for all children.” Child Abuse Prevention Month culminates with the 16th annual Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Day rally on the steps of the State Capitol Tuesday, April 23. Featured speakers this year include Earl Major, Children Trust Michigan board member, Sen. Aric Nesbitt, Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet and Fatima Salman, president of the National Association of Social Workers. Featured programs include Child & Family Services of Northeast Michigan, InvolvedDad, Inc. and Gratiot County Child Advocacy Association. Parent stories will be shared by Ian Agee, Danni Franzoni and Julie Hunter. For information on Children Trust Michigan and Child Abuse Prevention Month, visit childrentrustmichigan. |
Children Trust Michigan raises awareness of Child Abuse
