Humboldt County Board proclaims April as Child Abuse Prevention Month

In a recent meeting on March 25, 2025, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors proclaimed April 2025 as Child Abuse Prevention Month, emphasizing the community's role in safeguarding children. The proclamation highlighted the importance of collaboration among agencies and individuals to prevent child maltreatment, which affects families across all cultural and economic backgrounds.

Supervisor Madrone, who had to leave early, initiated the discussion by reading the proclamation, which underscored the need for community engagement in reducing child abuse and promoting the well-being of families. The proclamation called upon residents to participate actively in efforts to support families, thereby strengthening the community.

Following the proclamation, Jan Bramlett, president of the Humboldt County Child Abuse Prevention Coordinating Council (CAPC), presented the council's annual report. She expressed gratitude for the board's support and discussed the council's ongoing initiatives, including the implementation of the Family First Prevention Services Act. This act aims to create a comprehensive prevention plan to reduce child abuse through localized family support systems.

Bramlett reported an increase in referrals for services since the council began tracking data in mid-2024, indicating a growing awareness and response to child welfare needs. She also mentioned CAPC's participation in statewide discussions on sustainable funding and community involvement in prevention efforts.

The council is working on a draft report regarding mandated reporter training, which will be submitted to the supervisors soon. This report aims to provide context for potential reforms in the mandated reporting system, enhancing the community's ability to support families effectively.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue fostering community engagement and support for families, with the hope that these efforts will lead to a reduction in child abuse cases in Humboldt County. The board's recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect the county's most vulnerable residents.