by James Coulter
In 2022, more than 24,505 children were reported to be victims of abuse or neglect in Florida. To help combat this trend, the City of Lake Wales released a proclamation for Child Abuse Prevention Month.
At a city commission meeting on Wed. Apr. 2, 2025, Lake Wales Mayor Jack Hilligoss offered an official proclamation observing the month of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month.
“Child Abuse Prevention Month reminds Floridians of all ages that they can help children increase positive childhood experiences, which lead to happier, healthier childhoods,” Mayor Hilligoss said.
Since 1983, April has been designated as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, according to Google, in an effort, “to raise awareness and take action to prevent child maltreatment, with communities and organizations working together to support families and create safe environments for children.”
In the official proclamation, Hilligoss referenced several local and state organizations committed to addressing and alleviating child abuse and neglect within the state of Florida.
“Prevent Child Abuse Florida, in collaboration with the Governor’s Office of Adoption and Child Protection, the Florida Department of Children and Families, Heartland for Children, and The Ounce of Prevention Fund of Florida, implements Pinwheels for Prevention, a statewide coordinated campaign to raise awareness of child abuse prevention efforts by teaching about healthy child development and positive parenting practices, and establishing Circle of Parents peer support groups,” he wrote.
Residents are encouraged to call the Hope Line at 850-300-HOPE ” to speak with a Care Navigator for support to develop a plan to achieve economic self-sufficiency, referrals to local partners, and help identifying goals and barriers in their lives.”
