A Message from Dr. Melissa Merrick

As millions of children nationwide embark on a new school year, let’s celebrate the annual rituals that help us transition into the first days of school – picking out special outfits, backpacks and supplies, and the rehearsal of summertime stories to share with friends.

What’s important is how parents, friends, neighbors, teachers and communities continue to create safe, stable and nurturing relationships and environments that allow our children to succeed and thrive.

As the flurry of the new school year gets to you, remember your mental state directly impacts our children. They’re okay when you are okay. This means putting self care, patience and compassion into practice–these things are integral to a healthy relationship with others, including our children.

This time of year also brings new stressors and challenges for many families, including lack of afterschool childcare support and the prevalence of gun and other violence in schools and communities which can have an acute, long-term psychological impact on children. The recently signed Inflation Reduction Act was a missed opportunity to provide support and relief for families (you can read more about it below), but PCA America will forge ahead and strengthen programs like our signature Healthy Families America home visiting model – these family supports are more important than ever during times of challenge and transition.

PCA America will continue to promote federal policies and investments that prioritize primary prevention. And I’m more committed than ever to lead PCA America forward with intention, ensuring all children and families have what they need so that they can thrive. Thank you for joining us in preventing child abuse, America – because childhood lasts a lifetime.

Warmest regards,

Dr. Melissa Merrick

President and CEO, Prevent Child Abuse America