Mayor Caldwell proclaims April 2025 Child Abuse Prevention Month in Woodstock Georgia

Child Abuse Prevention Month was officially proclaimed by Mayor Michael Caldwell during the Woodstock City Council meeting on March 24, 2025, highlighting the community's commitment to safeguarding its most vulnerable members—children. The mayor emphasized the importance of creating a safe environment for children to thrive, stating, "Children are our most valuable resource, and they have a right to be safe and an opportunity to grow."

The proclamation comes as the city prepares for April, designated as Child Abuse Prevention Month, urging families and community members to engage in protective efforts. Mayor Caldwell acknowledged the collaborative work of local organizations, stating, "Effective child abuse prevention strategies succeed because of partnerships created among citizens, human service agencies, schools, and law enforcement."

Brooke Ford, director at Cherokee County DFACS, reported a concerning statistic: there are currently 351 children in foster care in the county, with only 70 foster families available to support them. "That's a problem," she noted, underscoring the urgent need for more foster families in the area.

Representatives from various local organizations, including the Anna Crawford Children's Center and Children's Haven, shared their initiatives aimed at supporting children affected by abuse and neglect. Amy Economopoulos from the Anna Crawford Children's Center highlighted their services, which include forensic interviews and therapy for children impacted by severe abuse. Meanwhile, Michelle Meek from Children's Haven discussed their advocacy programs and efforts to promote healthy family environments to prevent foster care placements.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for community involvement, as organizations plan to plant blue pinwheels across the county to symbolize the hope for happy, healthy childhoods. The mayor expressed gratitude for the community's ongoing efforts, stating, "It is vital that the city of Woodstock steps up to support our children."

As the city gears up for Child Abuse Prevention Month, the focus remains on fostering partnerships and raising awareness to protect the future of Woodstock's children.