HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - 03-15-2005-6aORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: March 15, 2005
Action Agenda
Item No. ~- Q
SUBJECT: Child Abuse Prevention Month
DEPARTMENT: Social Services PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N) No
ATTAGHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
Proclamation Nancy Coston, 245-2802
TELEPHONE NUMBERS:
Hillsborough 732-8181
Chapel Hill 968-4501
Durham 688-7331
Mebane 336-227-2031
PURPOSE: To request that the Board of Commissioners declare April as Child Abuse
Prevention Month in Orange County,
BACKGROUND: April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. The Department of Social
Services and other community organizations are concerned about the continued high incidence
of child abuse and neglect in Orange County, During Fiscal Year 2003-2004, 1,296 children in
Orange County were in situations referred to Social Services for suspected abuse, neglect
and/or dependency. Over 140 children are in the custody of Social Services due to sericus
abuse and neglect issues within their families,
The majority of child abuse and neglect issues reported to Social Services involve parenting
issues such as inappropriate discipline, supervision or care of children. Substance abuse and
family violence are problems many of these families are experiencing. This is an opportunity to
increase local awareness of these issues and to highlight the need to find strategies far
improving the safety of children in the community.
The Commissioners are asked to support this effort and to encourage the community to
become more aware of the issues impacting children and families.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: None,
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board approve the proclamaticn
declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Orange County and authorize the Chair to
sign the proclamation.
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ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Child Abuse Prevention Month
April 2005
WHEREAS, child abuse is a community problem and finding solutions requires
involvement among people throughout the community; and
WHEREAS, 1,296 children in Orange County were referred to Social Services for
suspected child abuse or neglect last year; and
WHEREAS, the impact of abuse and neglect lasts throughout life; and
WHEREAS, all residents should become more awaze of the negative effects of child
abuse/neglect and become involved in supporting pazents to raise their children in a safe,
nurturing environment; and
WHEREAS, children who are loved and nurtured grow up to be healthy, creative and
productive community members; and,
WHEREAS, it is the goal of Orange County to improve the quality of life of all children
who live here; and,
WHEREAS, preventing child abuse and breaking the cycle of abuse is the responsibility
of every resident;
NOW, THEREFORE do we, the Board of County Commissioners of Orange County,
North Carolina, hereby proclaim Apri12005 as "Child Abuse Prevention Month" in
Orange County and call upon all residents and organizations to join together to prevent
child abuse,.
THIS IS THE 15th DAY OF MARCH 2005.
Moses Carey, Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners