Celebrating 50 Years of Progress, Domestic Violence Awareness, and More
A Message from Dr. Melissa Merrick
As we celebrate the 50th year of Prevent Child Abuse America alongside Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, it is crucial we recognize that domestic violence and child abuse share some of the same risk and protective factors. Many studies have shown the devastating effects on children that is caused by intimate partner violence (IPV) and child abuse within the same household.
Domestic violence affects as many as 10 million children annually and, worse, 41 percent of those children are simultaneously experiencing child abuse. What’s important is that we address these intertwined public health problems within our communities – by recognizing that prevention happens in partnership.
PCA America’s signature home visiting program, Healthy Families America’s work shows outcomes that strengthen families: Home visiting reduces instances of involvement with child welfare, improves school readiness, and significantly reduces instances of intimate partner violence by more than 30 percent.
Looking ahead, in conjunction with PCA America’s 50th anniversary and Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Prevent Child Abuse America will continue to advocate for children and families by promoting policies and investments that prioritize primary prevention. Let us look forward to the next 50 years of working towards preventing child abuse – because childhood lasts a lifetime.
Warmest regards,
Dr. Melissa Merrick
President and CEO, Prevent Child Abuse America