Child Abuse Prevention Month
2026 Proclamation 

WHEREAS, childhood trauma including abuse and neglect is among our nation’s foremost public health issues, often leading to long-term psychological, emotional, and physical effects; and

WHEREAS, the federal Administration for Child and Families reports that in FY 2024 nearly 3 million children were involved with Child Protective Services (CPS) nationally, while in FY 2025 over 53,000 children in Virginia and more than 4,300 children in Fairfax County were involved with CPS; and

WHEREAS, Fairfax County’s child abuse and neglect prevention programs supported more than 2,000 families, including more than 17,000 children, in strengthening parent-child relationships, enhancing parental resilience, promoting children’s social and emotional competence, ensuring concrete supports in times of need, and fostering strong social connections; and

WHEREAS, all children deserve to grow up in safe, stable, loving homes that support their growth, development, wellbeing, and the underlying vitality of our community; and

WHEREAS, preventing child abuse is a shared responsibility, and early support for children and families is both compassionate and fiscally responsible. Fairfax County Department of Family Services, other county human services agencies, Fairfax County Public Schools, and community partners work collaboratively to strengthen families and protect children from abuse and neglect;

NOW THEREFOREBE IT RESOLVED, that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, on behalf of all residents of Fairfax County, does hereby proclaim the month of April 2026 as  

Child Abuse Prevention Month 

in Fairfax County and urges residents, faith groups, and organizations to renew their commitment to preventing child abuse, supporting families, and promoting the safety and well-being of children.