CARE Center of Oklahoma County provides a place of safety during Child Abuse Awareness Month

State lawmakers have officially declared April as Child Abuse Awareness Month in Oklahoma, shining a spotlight on the more than 13,000 child abuse cases reported across the state in 2022.

Organizations like The CARE Center in Oklahoma County have been on the front lines of this issue since 1991, offering free services including forensic interviews, medical exams, and prevention training for families and children. Advocates say prevention starts with awareness.

“We are excited to encourage and empower adults to recognize and properly report child abuse,” said Shelby Lynch with The CARE Center. In Oklahoma, every adult is a mandatory reporter, legally required to report suspected abuse to both law enforcement and DHS.

The center also provides free training sessions to help adults identify signs of abuse and encourages parents to use anatomically correct terms with children to avoid confusion. Children as young as four are taught about body safety in age-appropriate ways to help them understand their rights.

Lynch noted that only one in ten children tell a trusted adult about their abuse, a number advocates hope to improve through education and outreach.

Throughout April, several local businesses are stepping up to support the cause. Stella Nova is offering blue coffee sleeves, while Hertz Donuts is donating proceeds from blue donuts. From April 13 to 27, Tiff’s Treats will donate 20% of sales to The CARE Center. In addition, local landmarks will light up blue to show support.

Read more:

How a Tulsa leader uses her life experience to prevent childhood abuse and neglect

Understanding and Preventing Child Abuse: Resources, signs, and support

State Guidelines: Reporting child abuse and neglect in Oklahoma