To build awareness around the need to protect New York’s children from abuse and maltreatment, the state Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) will hold its annual pinwheel planting to kick off April’s Child Abuse Prevention Month. Pinwheels are a universal symbol of a childhood free of fear and trauma. The theme for this year’s awareness campaign is “Family Strengthening and Support” and agency leaders will highlight the many evidence-based initiatives the State and OCFS have developed in collaboration with its community partners designed to keep children safe and also provide more community-based, culturally responsive programs to help families thrive. 

Governor Kathy Hochul has also issued a proclamation declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. State buildings and assets will also be lit in blue the evening of April 3 in recognition of Child Abuse and Prevention Month and help spread its message.

DATE: Monday, April 3, 2023, 12-1 p.m.

LOCATION: ?Huyck Park outside OCFS’s West Building

52 Washington St. (across the street from Rensselaer City Hall)

Rensselaer, NY 12144

WHO:  Suzanne Miles-Gustave, OCFS Acting Commissioner 

Lisa Ghartey Ogundimu, OCFS, Deputy Commissioner, Division of Child Welfare and Community Services

Tim Hathaway, Executive Director, Prevent Child Abuse NY

Elected officials

Dozens of pinwheels will be on display offering a nice visual opportunity for media members. For more information about preventive services: https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/prevention/