(WNY News Now) – Community Encouraged to Participate in Awareness Events Across the County.
MAYVILLE, NY – April marks Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time when communities come together to raise awareness and take action in the fight against child abuse and neglect. This year, Chautauqua County’s annual Pinwheel for Prevention campaign will feature multiple events, including a new declaration ceremony in Westfield, New York.
The Village of Westfield Mayor will officially proclaim April as Child Abuse Advocacy and Prevention Month during a special ceremony at Eason Hall (Elm Street, Westfield) on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. Community leaders, local business owners, child advocates, and citizens will gather to show their commitment to protecting children and supporting families.
In addition, several other awareness events will take place across the county:
| Jamestown PlantingLocation: Jamestown City Hall (200 E 3rd St, Jamestown, NY)Date: Wednesday, April 2, 2025Time: 1:15 p.m. | Mayville PlantingLocation: Chautauqua Municipal Building (2 Academy Street, Mayville, NY)Date: Monday, April 7, 2025Time: 3:30 p.m. | Dunkirk PlantingLocation: Dunkirk City Hall (342 Central Ave, Dunkirk, NY)Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025Time: 1:00 p.m. |
Throughout April, pinwheel gardens will be planted at local businesses, agencies, schools, community centers, and private residences. The pinwheel serves as a national symbol of hope, health, and happiness for childhood, reinforcing the importance of prevention efforts.
According to the New York State Central Registry, Chautauqua County received over 2,100 reports of child abuse in 2024, with 25% of cases substantiated by DSS. This underscores the critical need for continued advocacy and prevention programs.
Chautauqua County residents are encouraged to wear blue at these planting ceremonies, in solidarity with child abuse prevention efforts. All events are open to the public.
For more information about child abuse prevention, visit preventchildabuseny.org, chqgov.com/humansocial-services/children-family-services, or capjustice.org, or view a detailed report on abuse concerns in New York youth facilities. If you suspect child abuse or neglect, contact the NY State Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-342-3720.
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