Allegany County proclaims April Child Abuse Prevention and highlights local services

Commissioner of Social Services Don Horan, Deputy Commissioner Jen Bigelow and Kayla Johnson of the Southern Tier Child Advocacy Center addressed the Allegany County Board of Legislators on April 22 to mark Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month.

Deputy Commissioner Jen Bigelow described the emotional and operational weight carried by child-protection caseworkers: "Prevention is a process, a priority, and has a purpose," she said, and she urged the board and community to recognize the workforce that conducts home visits, safety planning, court appearances and around-the-clock response.

Kayla Johnson, program manager and forensic interviewer at the Southern Tier Child Advocacy Center, reported that the center assisted more than 190 children and their families last year and has connected with over 40 so far this year. Johnson described expanded collaboration with medical partners to strengthen care and noted public-awareness activities, including the courthouse lighting and pinwheel gardens. She also thanked Genesee Valley Central School District for donating approximately 17 comfort bags for children entering foster care that provide emotional support during a difficult transition.

Chairman Brooke Harris read a formal proclamation declaring April 2026 Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month in Allegany County and thanked social-services staff and community partners for their work.

The presentation emphasized prevention, workforce resilience and community partnership. County officials said they would continue outreach events and resource coordination through the month.