News

Robins to share education about Child Abuse Prevention

  • Published
  • By Holly Logan-Arrington
  • Robins Public Affairs
ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  It takes only a moment to report child abuse to authorities.

The impact of that crime, however, can last a lifetime.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. During April, the base's Family Advocacy Outreach Program will offer tools to help educate the community about detecting and reporting child abuse.

Installation and local community leaders signed a joint proclamation at the Warner Robins City Hall Tuesday to mark the observance.

Roslyn Battle, 78th Medical Operations Squadron Family Advocacy Outreach manager, said preventing child abuse is a responsibility for everyone.

"Children have a right to be safe and to be provided an opportunity to thrive, learn and grow in an environment that fosters their healthy growth and development," she said. "Child safety and well-being is paramount, but many times passers-by, friends, community members and even parents are reluctant to speak up."

Battle said people should act immediately to prevent this type of behavior. "Call 911 or the military police at (478) 926-2187," she said. "Call the Family Advocacy Program at (478) 327-8398 or the local civilian Child Protective Services, (478) 988-7508, if you suspect child abuse or neglect."

Air Force Instruction 40-301 - 1.1.16 requires all active-duty military members and Air Force civilians to report all suspected family abuse incidents.

Battle said there are several types of maltreatments individuals should feel obligated to report. They are - emotional, sexual, physical and neglect.

April 16, Family Advocacy, the Child Development Centers, and Houston County Safe Kids, and the 78th Security Forces Squadron will host a Car Seat Safety Check in the parking lot between the CDC buildings from 4 to 6 p.m. Participants will receive information bags.

Each Monday this month, Robins' civilians are encouraged to wear blue in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month. Take your Blue Monday photo and send it to robins.fap@us.af.mil to be posted to Robins AFB Family Advocacy Program's Facebook page.

For a complete list of events, contact the Family Advocacy Program at (478) 327-8398.

Family Advocacy will host an information fair at the Base Exchange today from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. where Information on upcoming classes and Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month, along with giveaways, will be available.
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