DEPARTMENT: Social Services-Children & Family Services
FILE TYPE: Consent Action
TITLE
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Proclamation Of April 2026 As Child Abuse Prevention Month In Dakota County
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PURPOSE/ACTION REQUESTED
Proclaim April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Dakota County.
SUMMARY
Every year the month of April is recognized as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, which highlights the resilience of families and the hard work of child welfare staff and community organizations by uplifting the vital work being done across the country to keep children safe and families together. This is done through strong partnerships with law enforcement agencies, and education, health, and community- and faith-based organizations.
One of this year's themes is "Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention." This theme recognizes when families have the right support, they build a brighter future for their children. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, we can work together to prevent child abuse before it ever happens.
OUTCOMES
Dakota County's Social Services Department partners with individuals, families, and communities to increase safety and stability and promote health and well-being. The Children and Families Services section works to ensure all Dakota County children and youth are safe and well with their families.
In 2025:
* The Parent Support Outreach Program (PSOP) served 376 children and provided case management services to 186 families. This represents an increase of 25% from the 140 families served in 2024. Case management includes connecting families to community-based services and resources and linking families to concrete economic supports to prevent entry into the formal Child Welfare system. 86% of families who participated in PSOP in 2024 did not have a subsequent Child Protection report in the 12 months following the closure of their case in 2025.
* Child Protection workers completed 1,257 family assessments and investigations involving 1...
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