Mayor Sarno also recognized Helix’s 160th Anniversary this year serving children and families in the City of Springfield and region.
The flag raising ceremony aims to further educate the community on recognizing the signs of abuse and neglect, while highlighting the collaborative efforts undertaken by various organizations to safeguard the well-being of children.
More than 600,000 children are abused in the U.S each year. An estimated 600,000 children (unique incidents) were victims of abuse and neglect in 2021, the most recent year for which there is national data. The actual number of children abused is likely underreported because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. At least 1 in 7 children have experienced child abuse or neglect in the past year in the United States. In 2020, 1,750 children died of abuse and neglect in the United States.
“For 160 years, Helix Human Services has and will remain committed to safeguarding our most vulnerable children,” said Mark Paglia, CEO of Helix Human Services. “We stand united to ensure an all-inclusive system of care is available to support children and youth who have been subjected to the trauma of abuse and neglect and to provide ample services that will empower them to heal. It remains our fundamental responsibility to protect those who are vulnerable and cannot protect themselves.”
“It’s crucial that we recognize the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect, prevention services and supports can help parents, caregivers, and communities protect children and strengthen families” said Yamilca Nogue, a licensed social worker in the state of Massachusetts and Chief Relations Officer at Helix Human Services.
Mayor Sarno stated, “I would like to thank Helix Human Services CEO Mark Paglia and team for coordinating this ceremony in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month and for their work each day to protect and advocate for our children. This flag honors the memory of every child that was tragically lost to violence, abuse, or neglect and helps to raise public awareness about violence against our children and how important it is to report abuse when you see it or suspect it. We can and must protect our children, families, and communities from these heinous tragedies in order to ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
April is recognized nationally as Child Abuse Prevention Month. It’s not only an opportunity to highlight the work being done to protect children from abuse and neglect, but it’s also an opportunity to reflect on our communities and recognize the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect.
About Helix Human Services: Helix Human Services, formerly The Children’s Study Home is a 159-year-old non-profit organization dedicated to providing trauma-informed therapeutic and educational services to diverse children and families, building the foundation for lifelong success at home, school, and in the community.
