INDIANAPOLIS – Staff and families from Firefly Children & Family Alliance will join forces with the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) this Friday to make a powerful visual statement against child abuse. At 11:30 a.m., they will dye a portion of the Indianapolis Central Canal blue, a color that symbolizes the national movement dedicated to preventing child maltreatment.
The stark reality of child abuse in Indiana is underscored by a recent statistic from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ latest child maltreatment report, which revealed that over 18,000 children in the state were victims of abuse in 2023 alone. This event aims to raise crucial awareness about this issue and the ongoing efforts to protect children.
Participants are invited to gather at the Indianapolis Central Canal, located at 429 W. Ohio Street. The event will feature remarks from Tina Cloer, the President and CEO of Firefly Children & Family Alliance, and DCS Director Adam Krupp.
“We are honored to partner with DCS to celebrate the work being done across the state to prevent abuse,” said Cloer. “Keeping children safe is our number one priority, and one of the best ways to do that is by raising awareness for prevention.”
Firefly Children & Family Alliance provides vital support to families across Indiana through a comprehensive range of programs. These include a 24-hour children’s shelter, family preservation and reunification services, substance use disorder treatment, counseling for survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault, and community education initiatives focused on prevention.
“Every child deserves a happy, safe childhood,” emphasized Heather Wildrick-Holman, Firefly’s assistant director of Community Partners for Child Safety. “We’re also here to support parents struggling with challenges.”
The symbolic dyeing of the canal blue serves as a powerful reminder of the prevalence of child abuse and the collective responsibility of the community to protect its most vulnerable members. This event encourages everyone to learn more about prevention efforts and the resources available to support children and families in need.
