April marks National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Mahoning County Children Services and the Child Advocacy Center at Akron Children's Hospital planted over 1,000 pinwheels in Boardman park in support of the month.

The pinwheel is the national symbol for child abuse prevention and each pinwheel that was planted represents an individual who provided a voice on behalf of an abused child.

2021 marks the 15th year for this annual event. Last year, due to the COVID-19 Global Pandemic and the State of Ohio's "Stay at Home Order," the Pinwheel Garden was not planted for the first time in its history.

"It's good to be back, although it's unfortunate that we have to do a pinwheel display, we're doing it in a way that brings awareness to our community. That's the best defense against child abuse and neglects, a vigilant community," said Jennifer Kollar, The Public Information Officer at Mahoning County Child Services.

The garden can be seen just off Route 22 in the St. James Metting House's front lawn in Boardman, Park. 

Child Abuse is a national epidemic in the United States. Approximately 1 in 7 children have experienced child abuse or neglect in the last year.

Nationally, a child abuse report is made every 10 seconds. In Ohio, a child abuse report is received every 30 minutes.

LOCAL CASES: In 2020, Mahoning County Children Services received 4,483 reports of child abuse and neglect and those reports 1,462 cases were opened for assessment/investigation.

Each year, communities across the nation 'plant' Pinwheel Garden Displays to help increase awareness and educate the community-at-large about the vital importance of child abuse and neglect prevention and learning the WARNING SIGNS.

HOW TO REPORT CHILD ABUSE: Ohioans who suspect child abuse/neglect can report via the Ohio Child Abuse Report Hotline: 855-O-H-CHILD (855-642-4453)

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services launched this automated telephone directory that links callers directly to an Ohio Children Services agency or law enforcement office in their County.

Locally, in Mahoning County, report to Mahoning County Children Services 24/7 Report Line: (330)-941-8888.

For more information about child abuse, click the link HERE.