Buffalo, NY, April 25th – April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a nationwide initiative led by Prevent Child Abuse America. This year’s theme, “Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention,” reflects the belief that when families receive the support they need, they are better equipped to build safe, healthy futures for their children.

In recognition of this vital cause, Buffalo Prenatal Perinatal Network (BPPN) and its Healthy Families Buffalo program—an affiliate of Prevent Child Abuse America—hosted a Community Rally, bringing together local advocates, program families, and partners to raise awareness and stand united against child abuse.

The event featured remarks and powerful testimonials from BPPN staff, participating families, and community partners including Every Person Influences Children (EPIC) and the Parent Network of WNY. Together, these organizations are on the frontlines of prevention and support.

According to the National Children’s Alliance, an estimated 558,899 children in the U.S. were victims of abuse and neglect in 2022—the latest year for which national data is available. That’s 8 children for every 1,000.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlines key strategies to prevent child abuse and neglect, such as:

  • Strengthening economic support for families
  • Promoting positive parenting and changing harmful social norms
  • Ensuring access to quality early childhood education and care
  • Enhancing parenting skills to foster healthy development
  • Providing timely intervention to reduce both immediate and long-term harm

“Child abuse and neglect are preventable by providing families with the tools and resources they need to care for their families. Through programs like those offered by BPPN, EPIC and Parent Network, parents and caregivers have access to important information and tools to build healthy families and vibrant communities.” Tara N. Burgess, Executive Director, EPIC – Every Person Influences Children.

BPPN’s Buffalo Home Visiting Program is proud to be a part of Healthy Families America (HFA), one of the nation’s leading evidence-based home visiting models. HFA supports parents through regular home visits focused on promoting healthy development, positive parenting, and child well-being.

Designated a proven model by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in 2011, HFA has helped shape national home visiting standards and continues to lead the way in family-focused support. Learn more at healthyfamiliesamerica.org.

“Parents in our program grow in confidence and develop the skills to nurture their children in healthy, supportive ways,” said LuAnne Brown, CEO of BPPN. “They create safer, more stable home environments—laying the foundation for their children to thrive.”

This event is a call to action for all of us—to shine a light on child abuse, because if we do not talk about it, we can’t fix it. Everyone has a role to play in prevention. If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, report it immediately to the New York State Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-342-3720. If you are a parent feeling overwhelmed, please know you are not alone. Reach out for support—call EPIC at 716-332-4100 or the Parent Network of WNY at 716-332-4170. Asking for help is a sign of strength, and support is just a phone call away.

“A community’s strength is in how it protects its most vulnerable. Addressing child abuse—especially among children with disabilities—is not just a moral obligation, but a measure of our humanity. Every child deserves safety, dignity, and the chance to meet their full potential.” Kimberly Kadziolka, Executive Director, Parent Network of WNY.