April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month (NCAPM) and Albemarle County reminds everyone of the importance of communities working together to help families thrive and prevent child abuse.
When children and families in need come to our attention, Albemarle County Department of Social Services Child Protective Services (CPS) and its child welfare colleagues partner with parents and caregivers, their natural supports, and relevant community partners to conduct a thorough assessment of each family’s strengths and needs. Our staff refer and connect families to needed safety supports and other services to keep children safe and ensure their needs are met.
We all play a role as a community to help protect the health and welfare of children. If you have reason to suspect child abuse or neglect, contact the Albemarle County Department of Social Services by calling 434-972-4010, Monday – Friday between 8 am – 4:30 pm. After 4:30 pm or on weekends and holidays, call the statewide Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline toll-free at 800-552-7096 (out-of-state) or 804-786-8536 (in Virginia). Language interpretation services are available. If you are a mandated reporter making a report of abuse or neglect, you may do so using the online Mandated Reporter Portal, and CPS will follow up with you after the report is submitted.
Planting Pinwheels to Spread Awareness
To recognize National Child Abuse Prevention Month, members of the Albemarle County Child Protective Services team, Albemarle County Police Department's Special Victims and Victim/Witness Units, and other community partners planted pinwheels on the front lawn of the County Office Buildings on 5th Street Extension and McIntire Road to bring attention to this important cause.
The pinwheel is a national symbol for child abuse prevention because it serves as a physical reminder of the joyful childhood experience we want for all children. The pinwheel gardens illuminate the importance of children being able to grow up free from abuse and neglect and with their families because that is where they do best.
