A large number of these were substantiated. We also helped many abusive or neglectful parents get parenting training, referrals to drug treatment, employment services and mental health counseling to prevent repeat abuse. It's also a job that DFCS cannot do alone. We need community organizations to work with us by offering resources to help poor families, help with energy bills, leading parenting classes and finding families for foster children.
Every individual can help by offering a kind word to struggling parents.
For example, if you see a young mother handle her child's temper tantrum patiently, praise her effort. April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a good time to remind ourselves that every child has a right to grow up in safety and surrounded by adults who care. Marjorie Almand is director of the Bibb County Department of Family and Children Services. I am always amazed and bewildered by those who feel they must denigrate another's religion in order to justify their own. Mr. Hart is supposed to be creative.