Springfield, MA – In partnership with the City of Springfield, Helix Human Services raises hope for a brighter future.
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month
On Monday, April 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., a flag raising ceremony took place at Springfield City Hall to mark Child Abuse Prevention Month—a time dedicated to raising awareness and strengthening community efforts to protect children and support families.
The event served as a powerful reminder of the young lives lost due to violence, abuse, or neglect, and reaffirmed the community’s and Helix’s commitment to creating a safer, more nurturing environment for all children. Local officials, community members, advocates, and Helix staff gathered to reflect, remember, and recommit themselves to action. Also in attendance were students from the Helix Human Services Mill Pond School, who helped raise the flag.
Child Abuse Effects Many
More than 600,000 children are abused in the U.S each year. An estimated 600,000 children (unique incidents) were victims of abuse and neglect in 2021, the most recent year for which there is national data. The actual number of children abused is likely underreported because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. At least 1 in 7 children have experienced child abuse or neglect in the past year in the United States. In 2020, 1,750 children died of abuse and neglect in the United States.
Proclaimation
Child Abuse Prevention Month is an opportunity to highlight the work we do to protect children from abuse and neglect, but it’s also an opportunity to reflect on our communities and recognize the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect. Mayor Domenic J. Sarno officially proclaimed April 2025 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Springfield, emphasizing the city’s dedication to safeguarding its youngest residents.
Child Memorial Flag
Helix Human Services chose to raise the Child Welfare League of America’s Child Memorial flag as a symbol to support our community’s children. CWLA is a powerful coalition of hundreds of private and public agencies that since 1920 has worked to serve children and families who are vulnerable. As the flag waved against the spring sky, attendees are reminded that while the work is far from over, hope remains strong—and it begins with community.