(BROOME COUNTY, NY) – In recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month this April, Broome County’s professional agencies came together to highlight the community’s longstanding efforts to strengthen families and reduce child abuse and neglect. The Family Violence Prevention Council is a collective agency of dedicated partners celebrating 40 years of providing education, resources, and support to professionals and community members. The Council has advocated for policy changes, developed local protocols, and played a key role in numerous statewide initiatives focused on protecting children, elders, and families.
Throughout April, the Council will host several initiatives to engage the community in child abuse prevention efforts, including:
- Kindergarten Kits for Families – More than 2,250 families registering a first-time student in local schools will receive prevention materials focused on childhood health, community resources, and wellness tools. These kits are made possible through sponsorships from community partners and local agencies, ensuring they are free for families.
- 2025 Awareness Billboard – With continued generous support from Park Outdoor, the Council is debuting a digital billboard campaign for the fourth consecutive year. This year’s theme, “Celebrating 40 Years of Building Safe Homes,” was illustrated by local youth.
- 2nd Annual Come and Play Day – On April 24, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Oakdale Commons, families can enjoy a free interactive event featuring over 35 local agencies providing hands-on activities for children and valuable resources for caregivers. The event will include a recognition ceremony for participants in the 2nd Annual Art Contest at 10:30 a.m. in center court, followed by a dance part with local mascots at 12 p.m.
The Council recognizes a need for reporting child abuse to authorities to ensure the safety of children in vulnerable situations. Because of this belief, it provides Broome County professionals with the updated NYS Mandated Reporter Training in Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse and Maltreatment. New York State has required all Mandated Reporters to complete this training by April 1, 2025. Agencies in need of this training are encouraged to contact the Council for more information.
