The most common type of maltreatment of children is neglect, the Middlebury Family Services of the Vermont Department For Children And Families is reporting. In these hard times, it is especially important that we all do what we can to support families in need.
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, which is a good reminded that we all need to keep children safe and families strong in supportive communities. Get updated tools, tips, and techniques in the 2019/2020 Prevention Resource Guide. #NCAPM2020 #childabusepreventionmonth
Officials at the Department for Children and Families (DCF), Family Services Division, extended their sincere and deepest gratitude to all the people serving children, families, friends and communities on the front line. They especially want to acknowledge the role of foster care providers who have been identified as “essential persons” by Gov. Scott during this demanding time.
“You have stepped up in ways that no one could have predicted would be asked of you,” DCF officials said. “Thank you!”
As of right now, DCF reports that there have been no children in foster care who have tested positive for COVID-19.
With schools out and children at home, some already stressed families find themselves at a tipping point. Child welfare officials are asking Vermonters to do their part to support their vulnerable neighbors. Call them to check in. Offer to run an errand if you are already going out. If you are worried about child safety, as always, please call the Child Protection Hotline, toll-free, at 1-800-649-5285.
The Family Services Division and all who are part of the agency’s family of caregivers are working together to ensure the safety of Vermont’s children and youth. If you find yourself struggling in any way, please know that supports continue to be available. Call your local district office if you have needs or questions.
In these hard times for family and community, it is especially important to step up for families, children, and youth who are in need of a safe, stable home.
Find out how you can become a foster, kin or respite care provider. You may contact your District Office. Here is a link: http//dcf.vermont.gov/fsd/contact-us/districts. Or, you may visit our website at: https://dcf.vermont.gov/foster.