Child Abuse Awareness
WE CAN WORK TOGETHER TO END CHILD ABUSE
When families & children are supported, we can improve outcomes for generations to come!
In 2023, Thurston County’s child abuse rate was 39 victims per 1,000 children. When we compare this to Washington State’s average of 35 per 1,000 children, we know this is a challenge within our community.
Anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect can make a report. If a child is in immediate danger, call 911. For non-emergency concerns, contact Washington State Child Protective Services through the Department of Children, Youth, & Families (DCYF) or call 866-764-2233.
What You Can Do - Recognize the Signs
- Unexplained injuries
- Changes in behavior
- Returning to earlier behaviors
- Fear of going home
- Changes in eating
- Changes in sleeping
- Changes in school performance and attendance
- Lack of personal care or hygiene
- Risk-taking behaviors
- Inappropriate sexual behaviors
We can be a voice for children and families in our communities
Because of the lasting effects, an individual who experiences child abuse is more likely to experience:
- Changes in how they function cognitively
- Mental health concerns such as anxiety or depression
- Substance use disorders
- Homelessness
- Challenges in school
- Physical health concerns
Support Prevention
Strong families and connected communities help prevent child abuse. Supporting caregivers, reducing isolation, and promoting protective factors are key prevention strategies.
Resources for Support, Prevention, and Reporting
Parent-Child Health Services through Thurston County Public Health & Social Services provide programs and resources that support families from pregnancy through early childhood. These services focus on prevention, early support, and building strong foundations for children and caregivers.
Services may include:
- Family support and education
- Connections to community and health resources
- Programs that promote healthy child development and caregiver well-being
The Monarch Child & Family Advocacy Center provides coordinated, trauma-informed services for children and families affected by abuse in Thurston County. Monarch works closely with law enforcement, medical providers, child protective services, and victim advocates to reduce trauma and support healing.
Services include:
- Child advocacy and forensic interviews
- Care coordination across systems
- Support for non-offending caregivers
The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) oversee child welfare services across the state, including child protective services (CPS), prevention programs, and family support services.
DCYF provides:
- Information on child abuse and neglect reporting
- Prevention and family support programs
- Resources for parents, caregivers, and mandated reporters
Prevent Child Abuse America is a national organization focused on strengthening families and preventing child abuse before it occurs. Their work emphasizes protective factors, positive parenting, and community-based prevention strategies.
Resources include:
- Parent education and prevention tools
- Evidence-informed strategies to build family resilience
- National data and policy guidance on child maltreatment prevention
Contact our Parent Child Health Program at (360) 867-2500 or email PHSS_PCH@co.thurston.wa.us if you have additional questions.