Join The Fight Against Child Abuse In North Dakota
North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) and Families Flourish ND (formerly known as Prevent Child Abuse North Dakota) are joining parent and family resource centers, local child welfare service providers, and other partner agencies to underline the need for community collaboration in serving and supporting children and families to prevent child abuse and neglect.
North Dakota reported 467 confirmed instances of child abuse and neglect in the calendar year 2024. Though any number of child abuse/neglect cases is still too high, it is declining from 580 verified cases in 2023, showing a good trend.
The theme for this year, "Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention," notes Cory Pedersen, director of HHS Children and Family Services, "when families have the right support, they can build a brighter future for their children." "Our staff is dedicated to helping families get the tools and help they need so their children may be safe at home. We have come a long way recently in improving the safety, permanency, and well-being of the children and families HHS and its associates service.
Many North Dakota agencies will have in-person and online activities honoring Child Abuse Prevention Month throughout April. See Families Flourish ND to find more about forthcoming activities.
April is also a time to remind everyone that, should they be unable to safely care for their child, North Dakota has legislation allowing parents to seek assistance from approved Baby Safe Haven facilities. Parents can safely hand over a baby up to one year old without fear of questioning or prosecution. Babies have to be uninjured and delivered to a staff person on duty in a hospital or another approved facility.
Document suspected mistreatment of children.
HHS encourages individuals to call the state's toll-free Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting Line 1-833-958-3500 if they believe a child in North Dakota is being mistreated or neglected. Dial 911 if an emergency strikes and a child is immediately at risk.