LIMA – Community stakeholders will join the staff of Allen County Children Services (ACCS) at 9 a.m. April 1, for a flag raising in front of our agency to kick off Child Abuse Prevention Month.

The Lima Firefighters Memorial Honor Guard will be on hand to raise the United States flag and the Children’s Memorial flag.

On average, nearly five children die each day in the United States due to abuse or neglect. The Children’s Memorial Flag is flown to honor each child lost to abuse and serves as a symbol for the protection of children and young people from all forms of violence.

Child Abuse Prevention Month is recognized across the country with a goal to raise awareness and prevent child abuse. It reminds people that children deserve a chance to grow up in a safe, stable, and nurturing community free from abuse and neglect.

Together, with the community, we can work to reduce the number of children affected by abuse or neglect.