Each year, thousands of children in Missouri experience abuse and neglect, facing challenges that can have lifelong consequences. At Lutheran Family and Children’s Services of Missouri, we recognize Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month in April as an opportunity to raise awareness and advocate for the safety, healing, and well-being of children and families in our communities.
The Impact of Abuse and Neglect
Child abuse and neglect doesn’t just affect children in the moment—they leave lasting scars on their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Studies show that children who experience abuse are at greater risk for:
- Academic struggles – Behavioral issues and challenges in school
- Health problems – Increased likelihood of heart, lung, and liver disease, obesity, and diabetes
- Mental health issues – Higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide attempts
- Risky behaviors – Increased chances of substance abuse, criminal activity, and unhealthy relationships
No child should have to carry these burdens. LFCS is dedicated to breaking this cycle by providing support, education, and intervention services that protect children and strengthen families.
Prevention Through Education, Therapy, and Support
Rather than solely focusing on intervention after abuse has occurred, LFCS prioritizes prevention by equipping parents with the tools they need to build safe and nurturing homes. Our Parenting Program helps families develop healthy parenting strategies, strengthen family bonds, and access valuable community resources.
Research highlights the effectiveness of parenting education in preventing abuse. A systematic review of intervention programs found a significant reduction in physical punishment and harsh discipline, as well as improvements in children’s social interactions, anxiety levels, and behavior. By investing in education and prevention, we can reduce child maltreatment and create a more supportive environment for families.
Mental health counseling is another essential part of breaking the cycle of trauma. Parents who can address underlying issues through therapy can create a more stable, loving home environment for their children. LFCS provides professional counseling services that help parents navigate challenges, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger emotional resilience, ultimately benefiting the entire family.
How You Can Help
Throughout April, LFCS encourages the community to join us in raising awareness and advocating for child abuse prevention. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Educate Yourself: Learn more about LFCS’s services and resources at lfcsmo.org.
- Know the Signs: Familiarize yourself with what to do if you suspect child abuse or neglect.
- Spread Awareness: Share information about Child Abuse Prevention Month on social media using #ChildAbusePreventionMonth and #LFCS.
- Show Your Support: Participate in Wear Blue Day on April 4 to raise awareness. Use #WearBlueDay to show solidarity.
- Volunteer Your Time: Support children and families in need through volunteering.
- Donate: Help us continue our mission of protecting children and strengthening families by making a contribution.
“Child Abuse Prevention Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the prevalence of child maltreatment in Missouri and the importance of prevention,” said Heather Wall, Director of Parenting Services at LFCS. “Our team works to provide safety, healing, and resources to those navigating the devastating effects of abuse and neglect. By working together, we can build a community where every child is safe, supported, and loved.”
For more information about Lutheran Family and Children’s Services, visit lfcsmo.org, call 866-326-LFCS, or email [email protected].
Please check out the resources listed below to support Child Abuse & Neglect Prevention and learn more about reporting an incident:
- Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline: 1-800-392-3738
- Missouri Online Reporting Website: Report Child Abuse Online
Calls can be made 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For more information about the process, please visit our page about what happens when you make a report here: Reporting Child Abuse And Neglect