April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. This observance is a time dedicated to raising awareness and supporting families and communities in preventing child abuse and neglect. 

On Monday, the Kids Hub Child Advocacy Center in South Mississippi visited meetings of Boards of Supervisors, where proclamations recognizing the national observance were read. 

Following each meeting, Center staff placed signs in public locations to promote awareness. The Center attended meetings and placed signs in Monticello, Lawrence County; Prentiss, Jefferson Davis County; Purvis, Lamar County; New Augusta, Perry County; Columbia, Marion County; Hattiesburg, Forrest County; and Collins, Covington County. 

A CAC is a community-based, child-focused facility where representatives from law enforcement, child protection services, prosecution, mental health, medical services, and victim advocacy work together as a team to investigate abuse, help children heal, and hold offenders accountable. The goal is to reduce the trauma children face by streamlining services and ensuring a compassionate and coordinated response.

Child Abuse Prevention Month is not only about raising awareness — it’s about taking action. Everyone has a role to play in creating safe environments for children. This includes recognizing the signs of abuse, supporting families under stress, and knowing how to report suspected maltreatment. Prevention starts with education and community engagement.

“We want to remind the public that everyone is a mandatory reporter,” said Didi Ellis, CEO/Founder of Kids Hub CAC. “By coming together as a community, we can support children and families.”

Learn the signs of child abuse and neglect, and report any suspicions of abuse to the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services.