Llano County recognizes Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month in April
Cindy Scallorn (from left), Heather Martin, and Joann McDougal of the Llano County Child Welfare Board wear blue clothing and pins in recognition of Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month in April. Staff photo by Dakota Morrissiey
The Llano County Commissioners Court on March 25 unanimously approved a proclamation that declares April as Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month.
Three members of the Llano County Child Welfare Board — Heather Martin, Joann McDougal, and Cindy Scallorn — presented the proclamation to the commissioners and reminded everyone that Wednesday, April 3, is Go Blue Day, which asks everyone to wear blue to bring awareness to the issue of child abuse throughout the county.
According to the court’s proclamation, 264,464 victims of child abuse or neglect were reported in Texas in 2023, and 100 of those cases were recorded in Llano County. The Hill Country Children’s Advocacy Center interviewed 44 children in Llano County for abuse in 2023 and has 22 open court cases involving 36 county children as of March 28.
“We acknowledge that we must work together as a community to increase awareness about child abuse and contribute to promoting the social and emotional well-being of children and families in a safe, stable, nurturing environment,” reads the proclamation. “Prevention remains the best defense for children and families.”