Great Lakes Wire

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is partnering with Children Trust Michigan to spotlight the importance of child abuse prevention during Child Abuse Prevention Month. The collaboration aims to help families access necessary resources and support to maintain safe environments for children.

MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel emphasized the department's commitment to preventing child abuse. "Children deserve to grow up in safe, loving and nurturing homes. Every day, our caseworkers help families navigate crises by connecting them to prevention resources and support to help families stay together safely because research shows that kids do best when they are with their families," Hertel said. She highlighted the shared responsibility MDHHS has with various state institutions to enhance Michigan’s child welfare system.

To mark the month, the 17th Annual Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Day rally will be held at the Michigan State Capitol on April 15. The event features a blue and silver pinwheel garden and several speakers, including Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II and Attorney General Dana Nessel. Participants such as MDHHS Senior Deputy Director Demetrius Starling will also address attendees.

Suzanne Greenberg, executive director of Children Trust Michigan, encouraged community involvement. "Every Michigander has a role to play in the prevention of child abuse and neglect... We ask that all Michiganders join us to help raise awareness this month about the long-term impact child abuse and neglect has and help to strengthen families and to create brighter futures for all Michigan’s children," she stated.

Governor Whitmer has proclaimed April 2025 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Michigan. Her proposed FY2026 budget prioritizes services and supports to protect children. The state is also implementing initiatives such as the Keep Kids Safe Action Agenda, Family Resource Centers, Family Impact Teams, and a new teaming model by the Children Services Administration (CSA).

The CSA teaming model, introduced in March 2025, provides caseworkers, supervisors, and family resource specialists clear roles and guidance, improving service delivery for families. This system is designed to enhance collaboration and address specific family needs, aiming to reduce staff turnover while maintaining service continuity.

Children Trust Michigan, established by the state legislature in 1982 and housed within MDHHS, continues to advocate for the health, safety, and welfare of Michigan's children through local programs aimed at preventing abuse and neglect.