At the SAFEchild Advocacy Center, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein, alongside state officials and advocates, proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month and designated April 28 as Children's Advocacy Center Day. According to a statement from the North Carolina Office of the Governor’s office release, Governor Stein, who supported the SAFE Child Act while serving as Attorney General, reaffirmed his focus on child welfare by promoting these observances and proposing a budget that includes funding for parenting education programs.
In the announcement, Governor Stein noted that over 100,000 reports of child abuse and neglect are made in North Carolina each year. He emphasized the importance of recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month and Children's Advocacy Center Day to support efforts for justice and recovery for affected children. Attorney General Jeff Jackson also addressed the issue, supporting the shared goal of ensuring safety and well-being for children in the state.
State officials at the event discussed North Carolina’s strategy for child protection, which includes prevention, intervention, and support services. Eddie Buffaloe, Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, stressed the importance of early protection efforts. Dev Sangvai, Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, acknowledged the care provided by SAFE Child North Carolina. SAFEchild Executive Director Cristin DeRonja highlighted the value of intervention and the long-term impact of trauma on children.
Governor Stein’s proposed budget includes continued support for programs such as the Positive Parenting Program, which aims to reduce child maltreatment. Stakeholders present at the event expressed support for these initiatives, outlining a shared commitment to strengthening child protection measures across the state.
