R 201645Z MAR 17
MARADMIN 142/17
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC MRA MF//
SUBJ/NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH//
POC/J. GRANT-RAMBERGER/CIV/UNIT: MFCP-2/-/TEL: 703-784-1288//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1. April is National Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month. As a result, the Marine Corps community engages in child abuse and neglect awareness activities across the country in April. The identified Office of the Secretary of Defense theme for 2017 is “Children Thrive in Safe, Stable, Nurturing Homes.” Everyone in the Marine Corps community has a role to play in protecting
children.
2. Step up. Proper supervision may prevent accidents and keep children safe. Supervision is paramount when children are near water. Water can be dangerous to children of all ages. Step up and pay attention every single time.
3. Speak up. It is important that we all take responsibility and speak up every time we see abuse or neglect. Child abuse prevention is not exclusive to the month of April. If you suspecta child is at risk or has been abused or neglected, report your suspicions immediately to the Family Advocacy Program (FAP), local Child Protective Services, or your local law
enforcement.
4. Reach out. Parenting is difficult and no parent is perfect. Recognize when you are in need of help and ask for support and assistance. If someone you know needs support, refer themto local resources.
5. The Marine Corps community shows support for the 2017 Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month by participating in local installation events and activities. Leadership support of these events is instrumental in making it clear, by word and deed, that child abuse and neglect will not be tolerated in the Marine Corps.
6. Resources and services are available to everyone. For more information, contact your local installation FAP, New Parent Support Program, or Community Counseling Program. Help is also available at the Department of Defense Child Safety Hotline at877-790-1197, Marine Corps DSTRESS Line at 877-476-7734, and Military OneSource at WWW.MILITARYONESOURCE.COM or 1-800-342-9647.
7. This MARADMIN is applicable to the Marine Corps Total Force and will expire one year from date published.
8. Release authorized by BGen K. W. Stein, Director, Marine and Family Programs Division.//