Oneida County Hosts ‘Together We Can’ Breakfast to Raise Child Abuse AwarenessView

Oneida County kicked off Child Abuse Prevention Month today by hosting an awareness breakfast that brought together community leaders, service providers and residents committed to protecting children and strengthening families.

After gathering several years under a different format, this year's inaugural breakfast event highlighted the importance of collaboration in creating safe, supportive environments where children can thrive. The theme of "Together We Can" underscored the shared responsibility of individuals, families, public and private agencies and businesses to ensure the well-being of children across the community.

"Nothing we do as a county is more important than protecting our children," said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. "Our caseworkers and investigators are on the front lines every day working to prevent abuse, hold offenders accountable and support victims through incredibly difficult circumstances. But this responsibility belongs to all of us. We each have a role to play in recognizing the signs, speaking up and being part of the solution. When we support children and strengthen families, we strengthen our entire community."

Speakers and participants emphasized that while Child Abuse Prevention Month acknowledges the serious harm and trauma caused by abuse and neglect, it also serves as a call to action. By fostering strong relationships and ensuring access to essential supports such as employment, housing, food, healthcare, childcare, transportation and recreational opportunities, communities can reduce stress on families and promote stability.

Research shows that child abuse and neglect can have lifelong consequences, including mental health challenges, physical health issues, difficulties in relationships and increased risk of premature death. However, positive childhood experiences and nurturing, stable relationships can build resilience and improve long-term outcomes. Even one caring adult can play a critical role in helping a child overcome adversity and achieve a healthy, successful future.

With more than 550,000 children being abused and 2,000 annual fatalities occurring nationwide each year, the event highlighted the ongoing need for awareness and intervention in Oneida County, where the following occurred in 2025:

• 3,543 reports of child abuse or neglect were received by the Department of Family and Community Services (DFCS).
• 198 petitions related to abuse or neglect were filed in Family Court.
• Preventive services supported 1,452 at-risk children living at home with their families.
• In partnership with community agencies, the County provided assistance to 575 vulnerable families.

In 2025, the Oneida County Child Advocacy Center (CAC)­­ -a multidisciplinary team comprised of members of DFCS and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy groups­­­- investigated 1,020 cases of child abuse, serving 860 children. As a result of those efforts, 39 arrests were made, 39 medical exams were conducted and 419 children received counseling services.

"Child abuse is not something that can be ignored," said Oneida County Sheriff Robert M. Maciol. "It is something that must be addressed with every resource at our disposal. Every year, we bring attention to the need to protect our children. Not only do we need to be aware of the symptoms of child abuse, but we also need to educate the public on the steps they can take to help. This is critical to the mission of the Oneida County Child Advocacy Center."

"Safeguarding children from harm is among the highest responsibilities of the District Attorney's Office," said District Attorney Todd C. Carville. "During Child Abuse Prevention Month, we urge the community to stay vigilant, recognize the indicators of abuse and support law enforcement efforts to stop it. Our office remains committed to standing up for victims and holding offenders accountable through aggressive prosecution."

"April marks National Child Abuse Prevention Month," said Chief Deputy Derrick O'Meara, Director of the CAC. "Raising awareness is critical, but protecting children is a responsibility we all carry year-round. From teachers and parents to neighbors, healthcare providers and community members, everyone has a role to play in recognizing concerns and helping ensure children remain safe."

"Neglect is frequently tied to broader economic and social challenges that limit a family's access to the resources needed to raise children in a safe and healthy environment," said DFCS Commissioner Colleen Fahy-Box. "That's why prevention requires a community-wide effort. Whether it's offering support to a struggling family, staying attentive to the needs of children we interact with or getting involved in organizations that serve youth, even small, everyday actions can make a meaningful difference in reducing maltreatment and helping children grow up in stable, nurturing environments."

Common signs of child abuse to watch out for include:

• Unexplained injuries
• Negative changes in behavior
• Returning to earlier childhood behaviors
• Fear of going home
• Changes in eating
• Changes in sleeping
• Changes in school performance and attendance
• Lack of personal care or hygiene
• Risk taking behaviors
• Inappropriate sexual behaviors

Anyone who is aware that a child is in immediate danger should call 911. If someone suspects that a child is the victim of sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect or maltreatment, it can be reported to the New York State Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-342-3720.