Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06) introduced a bipartisan resolution expressing strong support for the goals and ideals of National Child Abuse Prevention Month. The resolution affirms the need for increased awareness, education, and federal investment to prevent child abuse and support survivors.
Child abuse and neglect remain a serious public health issue in the United States, with an estimated 1 in 7 children affected each year and nearly 7.8 million children referred to child protective services in 2023 alone. The resolution recognizes the profound and long-lasting effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), including increased risk of depression, heart disease, substance abuse, and suicide. It also highlights the critical role of evidence-based prevention programs—such as Healthy Families America—in building stronger families and communities.
“Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, loving environment, free from abuse and neglect,” said Congressman Andy Barr. “National Child Abuse Prevention Month is an opportunity to raise awareness, support survivors, and advance bipartisan solutions that strengthen families and protect our most vulnerable. We must take action now to prevent abuse before it happens—not only because it is the right thing to do, but because it is one of the most powerful ways we can invest in the future of our country.”
“There is perhaps no other issue that embodies bipartisanship more than keeping our kids safe. Each of us has a role to play in ensuring our children are not only safe and healthy, but that they flourish in communities that treasure them. Child Abuse Prevention Month is a time when we must heighten awareness around the issue of child abuse and neglect and seek ways to prevent our children from being harmed. A Congressional House Resolution, introduced by Congressman Andy Barr (KY-6) is one more way in which he has worked with Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky, and our national organization, Prevent Child Abuse America, for more than 25 years.” —Jill Seyfred, Executive Director of Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky
The resolution supports greater investment in prevention services, public education on the signs of abuse, justice for survivors, and long-term healing efforts for victims of child sexual abuse.
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