MARQUETTE – In honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services recognizes the critical role prevention programs and supports play in keeping children safe and strengthening families.

“Every family deserves the chance to thrive. MDHHS is committed to ensuring families have access to the support they need, when they need it,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “Early support helps families stay strong and stable to enable children to grow up safe and healthy, and for communities to thrive.”

Research demonstrates that positive childhood experiences — such as feeling safe, supported by family and connected to community — are linked to better health outcomes, higher educational attainment and improved economic well-being throughout a person’s lifespan. Positive childhood experiences help set the stage for lasting well-being and resilience, and child abuse prevention services and supports are some of the many ways MDHHS helps families develop pathways to connection, growth and hope.

Through the department’s Keep Kids Safe Action Agenda, which includes dozens of protocols and policies to improve the safety and well-being of Michigan children, MDHHS follows best practices in child welfare and commits to following the nation’s highest standards. The action agenda focuses on five key categories: prevention, intervention, stability, wellness and workforce to ensure the best possible support for children and families.