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SALEM - April is Child Abuse Prevention Month and The Brightside Project encourages all residents of Columbiana County to join the Ohio Children's Trust Fund's #EverdayOhioHeroes campaign to raise awareness of child abuse and neglect prevention and promote a call to action to encourage all adults to "be a hero in the eyes of a child - one simple act of encouragement at a time."
"We all have a role to play in preventing child abuse and neglect," said Lindsay Williams, executive director of the Ohio Children's Trust Fund. "One way we can do that is by creating positive childhood experiences. When children feel safe and supported in their families and communities, they grow into well-adapted adults."
The Brightside Project is partnering with the Ohio Children's Trust Fund to implement an early childhood safety initiative in Columbiana County. Their "Safety!" program gives income-eligible families with birth to 3-year-olds free safety support items for the home. Items include a highchair and booster seat combo, video baby monitor, exersaucer, fire extinguisher, carbon monoxide detector and smoke detector.
In Ohio, everyday heroes such as parents, family members, educators, service providers, public officials and members of the faith-based community share the responsibility to create positive childhoods.
Lisa Wallace, co-director of The Brightside Project, said "Over 17,000 Ohio children were found to be abused or neglected in 2020. We're fortunate to be able to do our part and encourage families by giving them safety support items that can help keep children safe in the home."
Families interested in receiving safety items from The Brightside Project can call 234-320-4005. For information about child abuse prevention programs and resources in the community, visit octf.ohio.gov. To report suspected child abuse or neglect, call 855-OH-CHILD (855-642-4453). The number is toll free and reports can be made anonymously.