APRIL is Child Abuse Prevention Month. It’s a topic not many of us want to talk about, but yet the problem exists. And unfortunately remains common. The National Children’s Alliance reports in 2022, more than 550,000 children in the United States are known to be abused and neglected. 

Meanwhile, U.S. Child welfare authorities look into the safety of 7.5 million kids every year. This child abuse causes trauma in children. If left untreated, it can lead to mental health problems like depression and anxiety; behavioral changes like substance abuse, risky sexual behaviors, and physical health problems.

How do we make sure our children are safe? And who’s responsible? 

GUESTS:

Spencer Merriweather III – Mecklenburg Co. District Attorney

Andrew Oliver, CEO of  Pat’s Place Child Advocacy Center 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

To report child abuse, neglect or human trafficking call our new 24-hour HELP Line: 980-31- HELPS (43577) OR online Child Protective Services.

For general inquiries about Child Protective Services, existing cases, social workers and community resources call our new Youth and Family Services Information Assistance Line: 980-314-7700.