DHR staff wears blue in honor of National Child Abuse Prevention Month

MARION COUNTY — The Marion County Department of Human Resources is feeling very blue, but in a good way. DHR employees recently came together dressed in blue to draw attention to National Child Abuse Prevention Month observed every year in April. The official “Wear Blue Day” was Friday, April 10.
The national campaign focuses on the power of families, communities and systems collaborating to ensure children grow up safe and supported. April was chosen for its symbolism of renewal, growth and hope.
DHR staff hope members of the community will also participate by wearing blue sometime this month. It is also helpful to share educational resources and prevention tips through social media and community networks.
The “Day of Giving” is Tuesday, April 28. It is a day to contribute to organizations working to prevent child abuse. For faith communities, Sunday, April 26, is marked as “Blue Sunday,” the National Day of Prayer for victims of abuse.
In the state of Alabama alone, the number of annual reports of abuse and neglect number 26,500-plus.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2024, Marion County’s population was 22.8 percent children under the age of 20.
Currently, Marion County has 48 children in foster care. According to Alabama DHR Family Services Division, Office of Data Analysis, Marion County’s most recent reports show 98 children with indicated reports of abuse or neglect.
This measure involves instances of child abuse or neglect where both credible evidence and the professional judgment of the social worker substantiate an alleged perpetrator is responsible for harming the child.
The new director for the Marion County Department of Human Resources, Amber Steward, and the entire staff, hope drawing attention to child abuse prevention will increase community awareness of the issue and enhance partnerships with local organizations to protect the most vulnerable and most precious resource of our community.  
Officials also noted Marion County is in desperate need of foster homes. If you are interested in becoming a foster parent,  please contact DHR at 205-921-6000.