April is Prevent Child Abuse Month

PENDER COUNTY -- Social workers say nationwide, seven million children have been abused already this year. In Pender County alone there are 500 cases of maltreatment reported in 2007. And with April being Prevent Child Abuse Month local agencies are working to help those who can't help themselves. Local high schools donated models, benches and trees to Pender County and the social services office to help raise awareness of child abuse. Social worker Paula White said, "We're raising awareness but we also want the community to take a protective stance with the children and report if you think or suspect that a child had been abused to social services or any agency that can make sure a life is saved." To help reduce the number of child abuse cases social workers say everyone in the community needs to keep their eyes and ears open. If a child is not being properly taken care of you can call any law enforcement or social work agency and your call can help save a life.