Whitmer, MDHHS Children's Trust Fund ask Michiganders to Stand UP for kids during Child Abuse Prevention Month

The message is being delivered virtually this year, but it remains the same: Everyone in Michigan must Stand UP for kids to prevent child abuse and neglect.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has issued a proclamation declaring April to be Child Abuse Prevention Month in Michigan. The Children’s Trust Fund within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is spreading the prevention message.

“Preventing child abuse is a community responsibility,” Whitmer said. “I will continue to work with MDHHS and the Children’s Trust Fund to protect our children so they can grow up safe and realize their dreams. Our children represent the future of Michigan, and I invite all Michiganders to Stand UP for kids in April and every month.”

The Children’s Trust Fund is sponsoring social media events and programming during April. On Wednesday, the Children’s Trust Fund hosted a virtual Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Day event with videos featuring . Whitmer, U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, its Board of Directors, and others to bring awareness to the importance of preventing child maltreatment in Michigan.

To view postings and videos in celebration of Child Abuse Prevention Month, visit the Michigan Children’s Trust Fund Facebook page and Twitter account.

Michigan’s Child Abuse Prevention Awareness events will highlight two messages. First, Michigan will continue the statewide initiative campaign inviting all Michiganders to Stand UP for Children. Second, blue and silver pinwheels will continue to be the symbol for child abuse prevention. Each pinwheel signifies the free spirit of a happy childhood.

“The Children’s Trust Fund is dedicated to working with our locally based prevention partners in each county across the state to serve as a voice for Michigan children and their families,” said Suzanne Greenberg, executive director of the Children’s Trust Fund. “We must all Stand UP to promote the health, safety and well-being of our children by investing in and supporting local programs and services that prevent child abuse and neglect.”

Last year 26,912 Michigan children were confirmed victims of abuse or neglect.

The Children's Trust Fund was established by the Michigan Legislature in 1982 through Public Act 249 of 1982 and Public Act 250 of 1982.  It serves as a voice for Michigan's children and families and promotes their health, safety and welfare.

For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/CTF.