The SAFE Center, located at 3701 Power Inn Rd., provides a welcoming, child-friendly atmosphere where children, who may be victims of sexual abuse, physical abuse, or witnesses to violent crimes, are interviewed by specially trained staff who have experience in talking to children about difficult subjects.
In 2008, Prevent Child Abuse America, a nationwide, non-profit organization dedicated to the development of programs that prevent all types of child abuse and neglect, introduced the pinwheel as the national symbol for child abuse prevention through Pinwheels for Prevention®. Since then, agencies including child advocacy centers across the nation have been planting Pinwheel Gardens to raise awareness of child abuse and neglect and to support the healthy development of our nation’s children.
“It is important for social workers and staff to be part of the Pinwheels for Prevention campaign; to have a visual representation of their tireless effort to keep children in our community safe,” said Michelle Callejas, Director of the Sacramento County Department of Child, Family and Adult Services. “It’s also important that we take the time to show our appreciation for Sacramento County social workers for the profound difference they make each day in the lives of children and families across our community. The pinwheels are a reminder that we should all want each child in our community to have a safe and happy childhood.”
5 tips for preventing child abuse and neglect:
- Be a friend to a parent you know. Ask how their children are doing. Draw on your own experiences to provide reassurance and support. If a parent seems to be struggling, offer to babysit or run errands, or just lend a friendly ear. Show you understand.
- Be a friend to a child you know. Remember their names. Smile when you talk with them. Ask them about their day at school. Send them a card in the mail. Show you care.
- Talk to your neighbors about looking out for one another's children. Encourage a supportive spirit among parents in your apartment building or on your block. Show that you are involved.
- Give your used clothing, furniture and toys to another family to use. This can help relieve the stress of financial burdens on parents.
- Volunteer your time and money for programs in your community that support children and families.
Watch this video on the 2019 Pinwheels for Prevention Campaign garden planting.
To learn more about the Sacramento County Department of Child, Family and Adult Services including additional information about child abuse, visit the
Child Protective Services webpage. To report child abuse in Sacramento County, call the 24-hour Child Abuse Hotline 916-875-5437, and in case of an emergency, call 911 for law enforcement.
