Joint Publication: New Tool to Prevent Child Abuse and Neglect

Media contact: Kelli Hawkins | [email protected] | (509) 324.1539, c (509) 994.8968

April is the national month for the prevention of child abuse and neglect

Spokane, Wash. – Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) and our children: Our company (OkOb) announces the launch of the Pinwheel project to mark the start of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month.

Project Pinwheel is a public awareness campaign that provides examples of actionable steps Spokane Counties can take to prevent child abuse and neglect in our communities.

“We as member agencies pride ourselves on the partnership, not only between our agencies, but also with SHRD, to spread the message across our community that we are all here together and that we can all contribute, support for children and raise their parents. Explained Dena Chappell, OKOB President.

Recent reports, including Combating Violence and the Condition of Women and Children in Spokane County, have shown that the rate of child abuse and neglect is higher in Spokane County than the state as a whole. To reverse this trend, SRHD and OkOb created a centralized website where community members can find information on:

• Practical ways in which individuals with different roles in the community can prevent child abuse and neglect.
• Safe ways to connect with others who follow current public health guidelines.
• Local resources that support parenting and care.
• The importance of investing in children and families for present and future community benefits.

“Early childhood experiences have lifelong effects,” said Ashley Beck, associate director of community health at SRHD. “It is imperative for our community to ensure that families and children, especially between the ages of 0 and 5, have what they need to thrive emotionally, socially and economically. The future of our society now depends on the well-being of their children and families – we invest in our future leaders, workers and caregivers. ”

“This is an important call to action to get involved today,” said Lee Williams, CEO of Community-Minded Enterprises, an OkOb member agency. “Preventing child abuse and neglect is everyone’s responsibility, and these resources are a big step forward.”

This topic was also discussed by Chappell and Dr. Francisco Velázquez, Interim Public Health Officer for Spokane County, talked to SRHD’s March 31st Facebook Live.

The Spokane Regional Health District is a leader and partner in public health by protecting, improving, and promoting the health and wellbeing of all people through evidence-based practices. SRHD is one of 34 local health agencies serving the 39 counties of Washington state. Visit www.srhd.org for complete, updated information on SRHD and its achievements in creating a safer, healthier community for Spokane. Like SRHD on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for safety and wellness tips.

Our Children: Our company is committed to community action to end child abuse through awareness, education, resources and collaboration. We work hard to create a community where all children are valued, cared for and loved.