Lavaca County Commissioners Court
Lavaca County

April: Child Abuse Prevention Month

  • A large group representing various organizations and agencies, who work toward the prevention of child abuse pose for a photo with the Lavaca County Commissioners’ Court at its Tuesday, March 25 meeting. The court approved a proclamation declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Photo by Jimmy Appelt
    A large group representing various organizations and agencies, who work toward the prevention of child abuse pose for a photo with the Lavaca County Commissioners’ Court at its Tuesday, March 25 meeting. The court approved a proclamation declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Photo by Jimmy Appelt

    At the Tuesday, March 25 Lavaca County Commissioners’ Court meeting, the court approved a proclamation declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month.

    Norma’s House executive director Deanne Novosad appeared before the court saying 293,950 Texas children were reported as victims of neglect or abuse in 2024.

    She added that there were 189 children in Lavaca County, who were designated as victims as well.

    “That is 189 too many,” Novosad said. “As we know and work with children that is only the tip of the iceberg. As there are more children then we know who could benefit from our services.”

    Novosad added, “It takes the whole community to prevent neglect and abuse and through the proclamation we are letting the community know we are fighting to keep our children and community safe.”

    National Child Abuse Prevention Month recognizes the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect. Prevention services and supports developed by this collaboration can help parents, other caregivers, and communities protect children and strengthen families.

    For this year’s Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) month awareness and impact campaign, we acknowledge the crucial connection between a happy childhood and a hopeful future for every child and recommit to working together with our national network of state chapters to ensure all children and families have the resources and support they need to reach their full potential,” president and CEO of Prevent Child Abuse America Melissa T. Merricks said on the PCA America website. “Join us in advocating for happy homes as the foundation for a brighter tomorrow. Together, let’s ensure that every child has the nurturing environment they deserve for a better future.”