Throughout the month of April, cities across San Bernardino County including Big Bear Lake, Chino, Chino Hills, Colton, Hesperia, Highland, Needles, Rancho Cucamonga, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino, Upland, Victorville, Yucaipa and the Town of Yucca Valley have taken a stand in support of our community’s most vulnerable members by officially declaring April 2025 as Child Abuse Prevention Month.
At city council meetings across the region, local leaders presented formal proclamations recognizing the importance of raising awareness, promoting protective factors and working together to prevent child abuse and neglect. These proclamations reflect a shared commitment from the cities to ensure every child’s right to grow up in a safe, supportive and nurturing environment.
Children’s Network leadership, alongside county Children and Family Services representatives, were honored to attend these council meetings and accept the proclamations on behalf of the county’s children and families. Photos captured the heartfelt moments as local officials and county representatives stood together in solidarity for this cause.
“We remain dedicated to raising awareness during April for Child Abuse Prevention Month, and we appreciate the renewed commitment from cities across San Bernardino County,” said Children’s Network Officer Ashley Brooksher. “Child abuse, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse and neglect, can have lasting effects on individuals and communities. Safe, stable, and nurturing environments are key to preventing abuse and promoting healthy development.”
In 2024 alone, Children and Family Services received suspected child abuse referrals for more than 30,000 children. By increasing public awareness and strengthening community partnerships, we can work toward significantly reducing these numbers.
The blue ribbon, internationally recognized as the symbol of child abuse prevention, will be visible throughout the county during April as part of the Children’s Network’s blue ribbon media campaign. Additionally, educational materials, community events and the 26th Annual Shine a Light on Child Abuse Prevention Awards Ceremony inspire collective action and ongoing commitment to protecting our youth.
San Bernardino County extends its deepest thanks to all the cities that have joined in this effort. Together, we can shine a light on child abuse prevention efforts and create a safer future for all children.
Children’s Network is dedicated to strengthening and promoting the well-being of children, families and communities in San Bernardino County. Through active collaboration with county and community partners, we coordinate preventative programs and services, provide relevant training opportunities for service providers, and raise public awareness about the risk factors of child abuse and neglect. Our vision is to achieve positive outcomes for children and families in the region.
For more information about our programs and services, visit our website at cn.sbcounty.gov.