The New York City Administration for Children’s Services is recognizing April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month with a series of outreach efforts aimed at connecting families to support services across the city.
Throughout the month, ACS is promoting its Support Line, 212-676-7667, which connects families to resources including food, diapers, clothing, counseling, substance use treatment and domestic violence services.
The agency is also partnering with the city’s parks system to host awareness events and community programming, along with outdoor activities for children in collaboration with Scouting America’s Greater New York Council.
The campaign was highlighted April 14 at Herbert Von King Park, where hundreds of ACS staff and partner organizations gathered to mark the observance. Participants received pinwheels, the national symbol of child abuse prevention, representing safe and healthy childhoods and reinforcing the importance of early support for families.
“Why a pinwheel? Because it represents the joy, innocence and carefree moments of childhood," said ACS Deputy Commissioner Luisa Linares. "It reminds us of what every child deserves: a happy and healthy childhood. Today, these pinwheels serve as more than just a symbol. They are a call to action."
If you or a loved one is in crisis or needs mental health or substance use support, call or text 988. Free, confidential help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, regardless of immigration or insurance status, in more than 200 languages. Online chat is available at nyc.gov/988.
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