El Paso County DHS highlights child safety efforts during April child abuse prevention month

In a recent meeting of the Colorado Springs City Council, the focus turned to a pressing issue that resonates deeply within the community: child safety and the prevention of child abuse and neglect. Under the warm glow of city hall lights, Katania Jones, the Director of Children, Youth and Family Services, alongside Paul Myers Bennett, the Communications and Public Relations Manager of Human Services, addressed the council, highlighting the critical role of community involvement in safeguarding children.

April is recognized as a month dedicated to raising awareness about child abuse prevention, and Jones emphasized the importance of community support in this endeavor. In 2024 alone, the child abuse and neglect hotline received a staggering 23,497 calls, reflecting the community's vigilance and concern for the welfare of its youngest members. While not every call resulted in a formal case, each inquiry served as a vital connection to necessary support services for families in need.

Jones articulated that understanding the signs of abuse or neglect is not a prerequisite for making a call; rather, it is the concern for a child's well-being that matters most. The El Paso County Department of Human Services is committed to ensuring the safety, permanency, and well-being of children, a mission that relies heavily on the community's ongoing support.

The council was encouraged to consider various ways to contribute, from offering childcare to simply listening to a stressed parent. Jones also shared resources available at co4kids.org, a website designed to provide tools and suggestions for community members wishing to get involved.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to accept a resolution supporting these initiatives, underscoring the council's commitment to addressing child welfare issues. As the council members expressed their gratitude for the insights shared, it was clear that the conversation around child safety is not just a seasonal concern but a year-round commitment that binds the community together.