The Oswego County Legislature recognized April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month during its monthly meeting.

The Legislature’s Human Services Committee welcomed members of the County’s Department of Social Services (DSS) to recognize their hard work in serving the families of Oswego County and present them with a proclamation.

The proclamation stated, in part, that “child abuse and neglect is a very important concern” and that prevention “depends on the involvement of people throughout the community.”

“Preventing child abuse is an ‘all-hands-on-deck’ issue that requires every citizen to be vigilant and involved,” said Oswego County Legislator Roy E. Reehil, District 5, chairman of the Oswego County Legislature’s Human Services Committee. “Over the last year, we’ve become more aware as a society of the difficulties facing families in need as well as the challenges ahead of our caseworkers on the frontline trying to help them.

“During this time, the Legislature and the department have worked together to take steps that will improve these situations,” he continued. “We remain committed to supporting our workforce and improving the quality of life for our most vulnerable residents.”

Child abuse and neglect not only directly harms children, but also increases the likelihood of long-term physical and mental health problems, alcohol and substance abuse and continued family violence and criminal behavior.

The proclamation went on to read that “child maltreatment often occurs when people find themselves in stressful situations, without community resources, and don’t know how to cope. The majority of these cases stem from situations that are preventable in an engaged and supportive community and can be reduced by making sure each family has the assistance they need to raise their children in a safe nurturing environment.”

The focus on Oswego County DSS over the last year highlights the reality that preventing child abuse and neglect is an ongoing, constant, 24/7 responsibility. Effective child maltreatment prevention programs work through partnerships among social service and law enforcement agencies, schools and civic organizations, and faith and business communities.

To report a suspected case of child maltreatment, call the State Central Registry at 1-800-342-3720.

APRIL IS NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH – The Legislature’s Human Services Committee presented the proclamation during the group’s April meeting. Pictured from left are Nathan Emmons, District 15; Oswego City-County Youth Bureau Executive Director Brian Chetney; Frank Bombardo, District 7; Herbert Yerdon, District 2; service dog Isabel; Committee Vice Chairman James Karasek, District 22; Oswego County Deputy Commissioner of Social Services Marti Babcock; Oswego County Commissioner of Social Services Stacy Alvord; Oswego County Director of Services Sara Finley; Melisa Verdoliva, case supervisor B; Rachael Pelow, case supervisor A; Shana Taylor, case supervisor B; Diane Godfrey, senior caseworker; Committee Chairman Roy E. Reehil, District 5; Michael Yerdon, District 1; and James Scanlon, District 16.