Wear Blue on April 2 for Child Abuse Prevention Month

PIERRE - Communities across South Dakota are coming together in April to raise awareness of the harms abuse and neglect can cause to our state's greatest resource: our children. Through prevention efforts, South Dakotans are being invited to take actions to build stronger families.

Governor Larry Rhoden has proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in South Dakota. State leaders are also encouraging residents to participate in Wear Blue Day on Thursday, April 2 to shine a light on an issue that threatens the future and wellbeing of children.

"Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment, free from abuse and neglect," Rhoden said in the proclamation. "Preventing child abuse is a shared responsibility that requires the involvement of families, educators, community members, faith-based organizations, and government agencies."

In Fiscal Year 2025, there were 15,623 total reports of possible or suspected child abuse and/or neglect made to Child Protection Services in South Dakota.

"Keeping children safe is a community effort," said DSS Cabinet Secretary Matt Althoff. "Since abuse and neglect is usually done out of public view, South Dakota's safety net relies on the vigilance of community members to 'say something' when they see signs of possible abuse or neglect."

Prevention of abuse before it happens is also important. Twenty different organizations or individuals throughout the state offer a variety of parenting education courses at no cost. These resources are evidence-based and proven to help families better navigate difficult periods or obstacles in their lives all the while successfully safekeeping their children. There are also community resources available that can be pivotal in helping change the trajectory of a family's future. More information can be found by utilizing the Helpline 211 and by visiting https://dss.sd.gov/childprotection/nationalchildabuse.aspx.

Wear Blue Day is being celebrated across South Dakota as a way to bring awareness to Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention. Small steps can make a significant difference in the lives of children and their families.

How You Can Participate in Wear Blue Day and Child Abuse Prevention Month

• Wear Blue on Thursday, April 2- Wearing blue is a simple yet powerful way to stand in solidarity with children and families. By wearing blue, you're helping to spark conversation about the importance of preventing child abuse and neglect and supporting strong families.
• Share on social media- Snap a picture in your blue and post using #WearBlueSD.
• Get your workplace or community involved- Encourage coworkers, friends, and family to join in and wear blue together.
• Share stories- Ask people to share their stories about the valuable parenting support they've received.
• Community involvement- Participate in community events that support families and children. Many partner organizations throughout the state will be displaying purple pinwheels to draw awareness to the cause. Other groups are celebrating healthy children and family events throughout April.
• Learn more- Take the time to explore resources on prevention, childhood experiences, and ways to support parents and caregivers in your community.

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The South Dakota Department of Social Services is dedicated to strengthening families to foster health, wellbeing, and independence. For more information, please visit dss.sd.gov .