WHEREAS, every child in Virginia deserves to grow up in a safe, stable, and nurturing environment, yet the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) receives thousands of complaints of suspected child abuse and neglect; and

WHEREAS, the reported cases of child abuse affect children across every region of the Commonwealth —underscoring the ongoing need for prevention, early intervention, and community awareness; and

WHEREAS, children under the age of five consistently represent the largest share of substantiated cases in Virginia, reflecting the heightened vulnerability of infants and toddlers; and

WHEREAS, Virginia’s Child Protective Services (CPS) system, in partnership with law enforcement, healthcare providers, educators, and community organizations, works tirelessly to investigate reports, protect children, and support families in crisis; and

WHEREAS, evidence-based prevention programs — such as home visiting, family support services, and early childhood education — have been shown to reduce child maltreatment and strengthen family stability across the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, community members play a vital role in preventing abuse by recognizing signs of maltreatment, reporting concerns, and supporting families through mentorship, volunteerism, and access to resources; and

WHEREAS, April serves as a time for Virginians to raise awareness, promote protective factors, and reaffirm the Commonwealth’s commitment to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, do hereby recognize April 2026, as CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.