April 11, 2022 3:00 a.m.

State officials are noting that April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

A release from the Oregon Department of Human Services said this month and throughout the year, ODHS’s Child Welfare Division encourages all individuals and organizations to play a role in making the state a better place for children and families.

The release said research shows that when parents possess protective factors, the risk for neglect and abuse diminish and positive outcomes for children, young people and families increase. Some major protective factors include knowledge of parenting and child development, parental resilience, social connections and concrete supports, such as housing and food security.

Anyone who suspects a child is being abused, can contact the Child Abuse Hotline at 1-855-503-7233.