Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced that Children’s Protective Services (CPS), a division of the Nassau County Department of Social Services (DSS), in partnership with Girl Scout Troop 1011, recently decorated the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building in Mineola with pinwheels in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month. Pinwheels have become a national symbol intended to raise public awareness of child abuse and neglect.
Child abuse and neglect happens at every socio-economic level, across all ethnicities and religions and levels of education. Public awareness is critical to strengthening families and reducing instances of maltreatment. In 2013, Nassau County’s Child Protective Services received and investigated 6,999 reports of suspected child abuse and neglect. In 2014, CPS received 6,229 reports, a decrease of 11 percent.
Mangano stated, “We have an obligation to ensure that children are protected and safe. Getting the word out that services are available to children and families who are having difficulty coping can help end child abuse and neglect.”
If you know a child who may be abused or neglected, you can call the New York State Central Registry toll free at 1-800-342-3720. Calls made by non-mandated reporters can be anonymous. In situations of imminent danger, dial 911.
