Child Abuse Awareness Month

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and promote the well-being of children and families. At Messiah Lutheran Church, we stand with the Parker County Child Protective Services Board (PCCPSB) in their mission to support children in need within our community.  ​PCCPSB is a volunteer non-profit with no paid staff. The PCCPSB mission is two fold: to educate and inform the community on child abuse prevention, and to fund financial needs of children who are under CPS umbrella that cannot be met any other way.  PCCPSB funding comes directly from Parker County by authorization of the Parker County Commissioners, as well as some funds from private donors. PCCPSB only works on cases that originate in Parker County.  One of the ways PCCPSB accomplishes their mission in our community is annually leading the April campaign to raise awareness and education about child abuse. 

We encourage everyone to take time this month to learn more about the signs of child abuse and the ways we can contribute to prevention efforts. By educating ourselves and engaging in open conversations, we can help create a safer environment for all children.​  Prevention month activities are implemented in partnership with our National Child Abuse Prevention Partner Organizations, the Federal Inter-Agency Work Group on Child Abuse and Neglect and families with lived expertise. You can also find informational handouts about child abuse here or printed in the narthex at Messiah. 

NCAPM and other Federal child abuse-related activities are authorized by the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA). CAPTA provides funding to States to support prevention, assessment, investigation, prosecution, and treatment of child abuse and neglect. It also provides grants to public agencies and nonprofit organizations, including American Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations, for demonstration programs and projects. About CAPTA: A Legislative History provides more information about this important legislation. 

In addition to the important work of education and awareness, we also invite you to pray this month for all families and children, especially children who are neglected and vulnerable:​

Loving Parent and Creator of us all, we lift up the children in our community and around the world. Protect them from harm, surround them with love, and guide us to be vigilant and compassionate advocates for their safety and well-being. Grant strength and wisdom to those who work tirelessly to prevent abuse and support affected families. May our collective efforts foster a nurturing environment where every child can thrive to be who you have beautifully and wonderfully made them to be. Amen.​