DCF Recognizes National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Waterbury, Vermont - This April, the Vermont Department for Children and Families joins communities nationwide in recognizing National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This month highlights the work of families, communities, and service providers who help keep children safe. It is not only a time to recognize these efforts, but to strengthen them-together.

Child abuse is a serious issue affecting communities nationwide, including here in Vermont. Since 2025, there were 45 cases of serious physical injury to children, including child fatalities, investigated in Vermont. Acknowledging this is an important step to keep children and families safe, stable, and together.

"National Child Abuse Prevention Month is a time to honor those dedicated to protecting our children. In Vermont, we confront the reality of child abuse to ensure every child grows up safe and nurtured" said Aryka Radke, Deputy Commissioner for Children and families.

Protecting Vermont's children requires all of us to work together. When communities support families and act to keep children safe, we create environments where every child can thrive. Taking action to protect children goes beyond awareness. It requires commitment from the entire community.

"Child abuse demands both compassion and action," said Sandi Hoffman, Commissioner of the Department for Children and Families. "This April, we commit to creating environments where every child can grow and thrive."

Together, we can build a brighter and safer future for Vermont's children.

You can help by:   

• Learning the signs of abuse and how to report concerns  

• Learning more about the resources in your community

• Supporting a youth or family

• Becoming a foster or kinship provider  

Interested in a career in child welfare? Learn more about working for DCF here: https://dcf.vermont.gov/careers  

Want to make a difference in a child's life? Learn more about becoming a foster, kinship, or respite provider here: https://dcf.vermont.gov/foster