Oregon Urges Residents to Learn How to Prevent, Recognize and Report Child Abuse

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and the state is providing resources to help protect kids.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 8:05pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, impressionistic photograph of a parent and child playing together in a park, with soft, blurred pools of warm light and color creating an intimate, dreamlike atmosphere that captures the emotional tone of child abuse prevention efforts.A community-driven approach to child abuse prevention aims to strengthen families and protect vulnerable children through education, resources and compassion.Salem Today

Governor Tina Kotek has proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Oregon, and the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is asking all residents to learn how they can help prevent, recognize and report child abuse in their communities. ODHS is providing training and resources to help people identify the warning signs of abuse and know how to confidentially report any concerns to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline.

Why it matters

Child abuse is a serious public health issue that can have long-lasting impacts on victims. By working together as a community to support families in crisis and provide the resources they need, Oregonians can help prevent abuse before it occurs.

The details

ODHS interim director Rolanda Garcia said that when families struggle to meet their basic needs, it can increase the risk of child abuse. The department is encouraging people to learn about local support programs for food, cash assistance, and other services that can strengthen families and protect children. The state has also created an interactive online training to help residents recognize the physical, behavioral, and parental warning signs of abuse, and understand how to confidentially report any concerns to the 24/7 Oregon Child Abuse Hotline.

  • April 2026 has been designated as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Oregon.
  • The interactive training on recognizing and reporting child abuse is available online now.

The players

Tina Kotek

The Governor of Oregon who proclaimed April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Rolanda Garcia

The interim director of the ODHS Child Welfare Division.

Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS)

The state agency leading efforts to prevent, recognize and report child abuse in Oregon.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“When families are struggling to meet their basic needs and are in crisis, this can increase the risk of child abuse. When we work together to help families access the supports and resources they need to thrive, we prevent child abuse.”

— Rolanda Garcia, Interim Director, ODHS Child Welfare Division

What’s next

The interactive training on recognizing and reporting child abuse is available online now for all Oregon residents to take.

The takeaway

By learning the warning signs of child abuse and how to connect families with local support services, Oregonians can play a vital role in preventing abuse and protecting vulnerable children in their communities.