Local leaders, organizations gather to launch Child Abuse Prevention Month

HOUSTON – Harris County Resources for Children and Adults joined several local organizations Friday morning to launch Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Community leaders with The Children’s Assessment Center and the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services discussed ways to work together to prevent child abuse and neglect.

Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee also joined the discussion with local leaders and law enforcement.

In 2022, more than 56,000 children were victims of abuse or neglect across the state of Texas, according to the release. In Harris County, 28 children died from child abuse or neglect, many at the hands of a parent or caretaker.

By the numbers: 2022 key statistics in Harris County

• 1,249,789 - Children in Harris County
• 10,945 - Confirmed victims of child abuse in the Greater Houston area
• 52,212 - Youth/families served by DFPS programs in Texas
• 31,697 - At-risk youth served by Harris County Resources for Children and Adults
• 29,048 - DFPS children served by Harris County Resources for Children and Adults
• 3,665 - Children served by The Children’s Assessment Center
• 36,685 - Community members/staff/partners trained by The Children’s Assessment Center