April is Child Abuse Prevention Month – Welcome to San Bernardino County

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time when we come together to raise awareness and take action to prevent child abuse and neglect. This month and throughout the year, Children and Family Services (CFS) encourages our communities and organizations to prioritize creating a safe environment for children and families in San Bernardino County. Our approach centers on education and advocacy. We believe that by equipping parents, caregivers, community leaders and community members with the knowledge to recognize the signs of abuse and how to report it, we can protect children from harm. Through outreach efforts, we empower individuals to play an active role in safeguarding our children and youth.

At CFS, we offer a range of family-centered programs and services that are designed to ensure a safe, permanent and nurturing environment for children, while also strengthening and preserving the family unit. From counseling to case management, our services provide support to families in need, reducing the risk of child abuse. We also prioritize training for mandated reporters, ensuring that members of the community are equipped with the necessary skills to identify, and report suspected cases of abuse or neglect. San Bernardino County residents can also contact 211, a free confidential, and bilingual support, connecting residents with essential resources such as food, medical and housing aid.

CFS works closely with our partners, including the Department of Behavioral Health, Children’s Network, Probation and First 5, to offer a range of resources and support for families and children in need. Together, we strive to address specific issues and educate the community about available resources. Our community engagement team also plays a role in raising awareness about CFS services and addressing public inquires or concerns. Through outreach events, we ensure that the community knows where to turn for support and assistance.

Child abuse prevention is a collective responsibility, and each of us can make a difference. By educating ourselves to recognize the signs of child abuse and how to report child abuse, we can protect children and support families in our community. Together we can make a difference and create a safer, more nurturing environment for all.

If you suspect child abuse or neglect, please call the Child Abuse Hotline at 800-827-8724. Let’s unite as a community to safeguard our children and ensure a brighter future for generations to come.

Additional County Update News – April 18, 2024