This month is Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month, and Fayette County Children Services is encouraging all residents of Fayette County to “Pause for a Child” and take an active role in making our community a safe place for families and children.

The agency is also encouraging all residents to wear blue on Wednesday, April 13 to show their support for child abuse and neglect prevention.

Today, Children Services will decorate the lawn at the Fayette County Museum with 217 pinwheels, which represents the number of abuse and neglect investigation for 2015.

On Monday, April 4, Children Services Director Faye Williamson and staff will meet with the Fayette County Commissioners to sign a resolution to declare April 2016 to be National Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month in Fayette County.

Wednesday, April 13 will be Wear Blue to Work Day in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month and a balloon launch will be held at 11 a.m. at 133 S. Main St. in Washington C.H. The agency will release 217 balloons, which represents the number of abuse and neglect investigations for 2015.

Anyone interested in becoming a foster or adoptive parent may pick up a packet that day at the event.

Fayette County Children Services will honor the community’s foster parents and children for the Children Services’ annual bowling and pizza party during the month of April.

Children Services will also be holding a pinwheel coloring contest for all elementary students. Winners will include three students from each elementary school. Winners will be announced on April 22 at 11 a.m. Prizes will also be announced.

To report suspected child abuse or neglect in Fayette County, call 740-335-0350. Reports can be made anonymously. For more information about child abuse prevention programs and activities in the community, contact Fayette County Children Services. For those interested in becoming a foster parent, contact the agency to receive an information packet.