No pinwheel garden in Boardman as child abuse more prevalent
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It's the first time in 15 years that Mahoning County Children's Services is not planting its annual Pinwheel Garden, due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The hundreds of pinwheels help raise awareness for National Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month, which starts April 1.
Each pinwheel represents an individual who advocated on behalf of a child in Mahoning County.
Wednesday was the day that was planned for the planting but had to be canceled because of stay-at-home guidelines.
Mahoning County Children's Services Public Information Officer Jennifer Kollar said that with kids home from school and parents home from work, there is more potential for abuse.
"We need the community to be even more vigilant during this time because there are a lot of families that are facing unprecedented isolation and fears and anxiety is running at an all-time high," said Kollar. "A lot of these factors can, you know, unfortunately, place children at greater risks for child abuse and neglect."
Kollar said her facility is still operating since they are considered first responders, and are still taking reports of child abuse and neglect and investigating.
Some warning signs she said to be aware of include burns, bruises, an unkempt or dirty appearance, as well as depression and anxiety/fears.
"If you know a family at risk for child abuse and neglect, or if you know a family that's overwhelmed, make those connections," said Kollar.
Kollar also said the organization has a Pandemic Response Plan in place to make sure it is following federal and state mitigation strategies and social distancing.
She said the casework team is still required by law to make face-to-face visits with families, but one of the things they are doing is calling them first to see if there is anyone sick in the home.
If that's the case, caseworkers can talk with them via Skype or teleconference.
To support children across the Valley, make sure to wear blue on Wednesday, April 8.
For more information, you can visit Mahoningkids.com.
Mahoning County Children's Services 24/7 Hotline: 330-941-8888