April is Child Abuse Prevention Month
Every April, the Napa County Child Abuse Prevention Council (CAPC) commemorates Child Abuse Prevention Month by bringing awareness to this important issue and raising funds to support families and keep children safe. Led by Cope Family Center and comprised of representatives from other nonprofit organizations, the faith-based community, law enforcement and government agencies, CAPC coordinates Napa County’s efforts to prevent and respond to child abuse and neglect.
Each year, CAPC reports on the state of the health and wellbeing of Napa County’s children and families. In 2024, there were 64 confirmed victims of abuse or neglect, but since child abuse and neglect is greatly under reported, the true number is likely to be much higher.
"Parenting comes with immense challenges, and many families in our community face additional burdens like financial strain, housing instability, and limited access to childcare and mental health resources," said Sue Sigler, Cope’s Interim Executive Director. "When parents are overwhelmed, it can impact their ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment for their children. That’s why community support is essential—so that every family has the resources they need to thrive."
The good news is that we can all help keep children safe. "The well-being of children is a responsibility we all share," said Maria Chavez, Program Director at Cope. "By coming together as a community, we can create a network of support, foster meaningful connections, and ensure that every child and family has the positive experiences they need to thrive."
This April, and throughout the year, CAPC encourages everyone in the community to play a role in making Napa County a better place for families. There are many opportunities throughout Blue Ribbon Month to learn more about child abuse in our community, raise awareness about how it can be prevented, and find out how we can each take small actions that make a big difference.
Over 30 local businesses are helping Paint the Town Blue to bring awareness and raise funds by hosting dine and donates or other fundraising events throughout the month to support Cope’s child abuse prevention and family support services. Visit www.copefamilycenter.org/goblue2025 for a calendar of events.
· Two pinwheel displays honor the 64 confirmed victims of maltreatment last year and represent the joyful and carefree childhoods we wish for all children to have. View them at Cope Family Center (707 Randolph St, Napa) and the District Attorney’s office (1127 First Street, Napa)
· The Napa County Board of Supervisors will present a proclamation declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Napa County at their meeting on April 8. The community is invited to attend to express their support.
· Wear Blue for Kids on April 4: Show your support by wearing blue this Friday and sharing a photo, using #WearBlue4Kids and tag @CopeFamilyCenter
· Kids Day on May 3. This free, fun, family event provides parents with the opportunity to connect with valuable local resources while enjoying activities and entertainment with their children.
· Follow Cope Family Center on social media or join their email list for periodic updates and information about child abuse prevention and ways to get involved year-round.
For more information about Blue Ribbon Month activities, to learn more about child abuse prevention, or to make a donation, visit copefamilycenter.org/blueribbon.
ABOUT COPE FAMILY CENTER
Cope Family Center is a Family Resource Center in downtown Napa that empowers parents, nurtures children and strengthens communities. They provide parents with the education, resources and support they need to raise children who thrive. Programs include parent education and support services such as home visiting and parenting classes as well as drop-in services such as crisis support, emergency assistance and resource referrals. They also work to build a stronger community for families through community building and civic engagement.
ABOUT NAPA COUNTYCHILD ABUSE PREVENTION COUNCIL
Led by Cope Family Center and comprised of representatives from other nonprofit organizations, the faith-based community, law enforcement and government agencies, CAPC advocates for public policy that impacts children’s safety and healthy development and oversees awareness campaigns to engage the community in prevention efforts.