For Immediate Release
Contact:
Jessica Preston
Deputy Communications Director
New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department
Jessica.Preston@cyfd.nm.gov
505-699-2262
SANTA FE – In recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, the New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department (CYFD), in collaboration with community partners across the state will host events emphasizing the significance of community collaboration in serving and supporting children and families. This year’s awareness and impact campaign, ‘Building a Hopeful Future, Together,’ is conducted in partnership with national partner organization Prevent Child Abuse America.
“By coming together as a community, we can build a stronger, safer future for all children,” said Teresa Casados, CYFD Cabinet Secretary. “Let’s build bridges of support and resilience within our communities to protect our children and strengthen families.”
Throughout April, CYFD and local partners are promoting Child Abuse Prevention Month activities and events to emphasize the importance of building a narrative of hope for the future of children and families. The first two events are:
CYFD Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Day – Santa Fe, NM
Saturday, April 13, 2024
PERA Building
1120 Paseo De Peralta
Santa Fe, NM 87501
12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
CYFD Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Day – Albuquerque, NM
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Cesar Chavez Community Center
7505 Kathryn Ave SE #5260
Albuquerque, NM 87108
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Additional events will be announced throughout the month.
New Mexicans can help raise awareness and impact this month in the following ways:
- Listen to children. Teach them about the importance of communicating with you about anything.
- Stay informed about helpful resources for children and families.
- Don’t be afraid to seek parenting advice or receive help in times of stress.
- Learn about prevention and support resources in your community.
- Report abuse and neglect to SCI or through Reach NM.
Reporting Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect
CYFD emphasizes that if you suspect a child in New Mexico is experiencing abuse or neglect, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Dial #SAFE from your cell phone or call 1.855.333.7233 to speak with a CYFD Intake Worker. Alternatively, you can utilize REACH NM, CYFD’s text-based reporting system, by texting 505.591.9444, where an intake worker can assist you via text message. Remember, CYFD Statewide Central Intake operates 24/7/365. In case of an emergency where a child is in immediate danger, please call 911.
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