April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month (CAPM) which highlights the importance of communities coming together to support and strengthen families and protect children from abuse and neglect. Locally, Summit County Children Services (SCCS) is celebrating CAPM by encouraging the community to Wear Blue on Wednesday April 10th to raise awareness and show support for the prevention of child abuse and neglect.

SCCS invites the community to attend their Wear Blue Day events:

• Blue at the Zoo will be held on Wednesday April 10th from 11am to 4pm at the Akron Zoo. All guests who wear blue will receive free admission. Free popcorn will be provided (while supplies last).

• Minions @ the Museum will be held on Wednesday April 10th from 9:30am to 1:30pm at the Akron Children’s Museum. All museum nonmembers who wear blue will receive $1 off the entrance fee and museum members who wear blue will receive Minion chewy candies. All museum guests will get the chance to meet the Minions (look-alikes).

• Blue Sunday (NEW EVENT) will take place on April 28th. This event encourages faith communities and places of worship across Summit County to join and take time during their services to pray for the victims of child abuse and neglect and for those who work to serve and protect them.

In support of CAPM, Tallmadge Circle will be wrapping their lamp posts in blue ribbon and Akron Children’s Hospital will be turning their campus lights blue. In addition, Summit County City Council approved a resolution on March 25th, declaring April as Child Abuse Protection Month, and April 10th, 2024, as Wear Blue Day to raise awareness that child abuse is preventable.

“The Wear Blue campaign is all about bringing attention to the fact that child abuse and neglect continue to impact children in Summit County,” said SCCS Executive Director Cassandra Holtzmann. “All children deserve to be safe, and we hope that this month emphasizes that everyone plays an important role in preventing child abuse and neglect.”

Last year, SCCS served 1 out of every 12 children in Summit County. Currently, there are over 860 children in agency custody. In fact, there has been a 50% increase in the number of children in custody over the past decade. SCCS remains committed to the safety, permanency, and well-being of all children served, in partnership with families and the community.

SCCS asks that you show your support in preventing child abuse and neglect by wearing blue on Wednesday April 10th. Wear Blue pictures can be sent via email to Marissa.Marra@summitkids.org or by tagging SCCS’ Instagram or Facebook page @SummitCountyChildrenServices.

For more information about Summit County Children Services, and CAPM activities please visit summitkids.org.