Governor Bob Taft has designated April as Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month in Ohio.

In 1999, Ohio's children services agencies received 79,261 new reports of child abuse and neglect. Child abuse and neglect can have significant personal and social consequences. Children who are abused or neglected may suffer from low self-esteem and diminished ability to trust and form healthy relationships. Some are unable to empathize and are physically violent.

Studies have shown a correlation between child abuse and substance abuse, teen suicide, chronic truancy, poor school performance, acts of violence and other juvenile delinquency -- all of which generate costs to society.

"While educational campaigns are important, their success relies on putting awareness into action," said Jo Ann Davidson, director, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, "We encourage individuals to report suspected child abuse or neglect. With government leadership and community involvement, Ohio can begin to break this cycle of violence and promote a happy, healthy life style for our children."

To Help Paint Ohio's Future Bright and realize the vision of "enabling every child to succeed," under Governor Taft's leadership, Ohio has Six Commitments to Child Well-Being:

• Expectant parents and newborns thrive
• Infants and toddlers thrive
• Children are ready for school
• Children and youth succeed in school
• Youth choose healthy behaviors
• Youth successfully transition into adulthood

A statewide schedule of prevention month activities can be found on the ODJFS Internet site: http://jfs.ohio.gov/

Educational items and posters are being forwarded to local public children services agencies and Family and Children First Councils. In partnership with ODJFS, Family and Children First Councils are conducting a coloring contest for fifth graders across Ohio. Artwork will portray a child's-eye view of Ohio's Six Commitments for Child Well-Being. Fifteen entries will be selected for publication in a family well-being calendar for 2002.

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For more information, contact Jon Allen, ODJFS Communications, (614) 466-6650.