Uniting to Make Franklin County Families Stronger for Longer

Truly keeping children and teenagers in Central Ohio safer requires our entire community coming together, speaking out, and uniting in a mission to make all families stronger. This April, The Center for Healthy Families and Franklin County Children’s Services (FCCS) join together once again to recognize National Child Abuse Prevention Month and to call on our partners and local leaders throughout the region to learn, advocate, and act to prevent child abuse.

More than a spotlight on the number of children impacted by abuse and neglect, this yearly observance seeks to increase awareness on the importance of supportive families and communities in safeguarding children's well-being. We know that addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that prioritizes the safety of the whole child, considers their unique individual needs and trauma, and acknowledges the broader community impact. 

In 2024, there were 28,243 calls and referrals made to the Franklin County Child Abuse Hotline, with more than half involving allegations of physical abuse and a third suggesting child neglect. Looking deeper into the data, you find that we received 1 in 6 calls alleging sex abuse, 1 in 7 raising concerns about drug abuse in the home, and roughly 1 in 8 blaming domestic violence for shattering the sense of safety every child deserves.

When we analyze the numbers further, we find that Black female youth are twice as likely as white female youth to be at the center of these child abuse investigations (comparing 2024 referrals with the 2023 census estimate of the county population). This disparity highlights the intersection of race, systemic biases, and the disproportionate burden placed on our young people. 

We are proud to walk alongside one another in this important work. As a demonstration of your partnership in this effort, we invite you to join us in a series of events throughout the month of recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month:

During the week of April 6, join us in “Glowing Blue” with lights on several Columbus buildings and landmarks turning blue, including the lights on the FCCS building, Columbus City Hall, Broad Street Bridge, and Franklin County Government Center.

On Wednesday, April 9, attend the 2025 FCCS Child Abuse Prevention Breakfast, at Mitchell Hall on the Columbus State campus, with our theme: “YOUR STORY MATTERS. Learning from Lived Experience” as we highlight the importance of listening to the individual stories of the children and families we serve, learning from what our staff members and stakeholders have to say, and honoring the voices of our community. 

Also on April 9, wear your blue for National Wear Blue Day in honor of child abuse prevention and family strengthening. Share pictures on social media of your family or your team at work dressed in blue, with the hashtag #OhioWearsBlue2025.

On Saturday, April 12, help us create a visual display of pinwheels on the lawn of Columbus City Hall Lawn (90 West Broad Street). The pinwheel is a symbol of childlike joy and innocence and will serve as a public symbol of our collective support and the central role we each play in encouraging a world where all children can grow up healthy, happy, and successful in nurturing, supportive environments. 

By standing together, we amplify our impact and reaffirm the importance of community in the fight to prevent child abuse and dismantle the systemic barriers that continue to affect marginalized communities. We are stronger as one, and through our combined efforts, we can create an equitable environment where all children, regardless of their background, are better protected and more supported. 

We look forward to having you join us in April and to the significant difference we can make together. 

Yours in Partnership, 

Chip Spinning
Executive Director
Franklin County Children Services

Toshia Safford
President & CEO
The Center for Healthy Families

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