Illinois Department of Children and Family Services hosts
a community prevent child abuse walk and resource fair for families

Third Annual Prevention Walk and Resource Fair,
previously hosted in Austin and Englewood Community

CHICAGO (April 22, 2006) - The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services will hosted its 3rd Annual Child Abuse Prevention Walk and Resource Fair, Saturday, April 22, 2006, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the DCFS Cook North office, located 2550 W. Bradley Place, Chicago, Illinois. The goal was to inform communities about how to access information regarding child abuse prevent, with the goal being to assist families before a crisis occurs.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and each year DCFS participates in and hosts various events statewide to inform families of what that they can do to keep children safe at home. "We know that child abuse prevention initiatives and programs can be effective when families, agencies, corporations and government agencies come together to dialogue before a crisis occurs," said DCFS Director Bryan Samuels.

"DCFS has responded to the need to strengthen our safety net for every child who has experienced trauma and for children who are at risk," added Samuels. "The Department has incorporated new initiatives that provide support sooner for families and children. We recognize that families should receive timely advice, support and education that will help them with their children. We have encouraged our staff to go the extra mile to assist families with special needs children, and our early education initiative encourages DCFS serviced families to enroll children in quality preschool."

Part of the mission at DCFS is to support early intervention and child abuse prevention activities, as well as work in partnership with communities. This event is one of several efforts to fulfill our mission of protecting children and strengthening families.

More than 25 community agencies share information on FREE supportive family services, such as; substance abuse, domestic violence, childcare, housing assistance and Head Start program. "Strengthening relationships is the cornerstone of our success as a public service agency," said Samuels. "We look forward to this opportunity to meet and greet families to discuss keeping their children, safe, happy and healthy at home."

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Contact:
Kendall Marlowe, DCFS
Delores Robinson, DCFS 312-814-6847