Shelby proclamation bolsters efforts to protect children
As part of an annual observance, the municipal government of Shelby recently welcomed representatives from Richland County Children Services to bring attention to Child Abuse Prevention Month.
The proclamation presentation, presided over by Shelby Mayor Steve Schag and City Council members, featured the presentation of a dedicated proclamation and reinforced the community’s commitment to safeguarding its youngest members.
“This month of April is Child Abuse Prevention Month,” Schag said, underlining the duty to protect children.
In his formal proclamation, he articulated the city’s pledge, saying, “Whereas children in Richland County are our most valuable resource, and they need our support to thrive and to grow into healthy productive adults.”
“During National Child Abuse Prevention Month, we renew our unwavering commitment to protecting children and responding to child abuse, promoting healthy families and building a brighter future for all,” he said.
“Every child deserves a nurturing family and a safe environment free from fear and abuse and neglect,” he added. “Parents and guardians and relatives and neighbors all share responsibility to prevent these devastating crimes, and our local government plays a critical role as well.”
The ceremony was not just a formality but a reaffirmation of a longstanding commitment to child welfare that has been upheld for more than 140 years.
The proclamation echoed this dedication. “Since 1883, the agency has been committed to helping future generations succeed and remains focused on ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all families and is partnering with local, state, and federal agencies to improve the lives of children and their families,” Schag said.
Attending the event were Brigitte Coles, Children Services community engagement specialist, kinship navigator Arlillian Nixon and human resources representative Paula Caldwell alongside city dignitaries.
The mayor personally handed over the proclamation, marking a symbolic gesture of support.
Schag called upon all Shelby residents to actively participate in safeguarding children
and keeping families strong.
He urged “all residents to observe this month with programs and activities that help prevent child abuse and provide for children’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs.”
In response, Coles expressed gratitude for the support from the city’s leadership. “Mayor Schag, we wanted to thank you, and also City Council, for always supporting us. It’s truly a blessing,” she said, acknowledging the collaborative efforts.
“We brought you blue ribbons for every council member that you can hang up in support of us. And these were made by Arlillian,” Coles said.
Adding to the evening’s observance, Children Services announced an initiative to further engage the community. April 10 was Wear Blue for Child Abuse Prevention Day.
The proclamation presentation on April 1 was a reminder of the collective responsibility shared across Shelby and beyond to prevent child abuse and ensure a safer future for all children.
The ceremony not only acknowledged past efforts but also looked forward to continuing these vital protections and support for the community’s children.
Mayor Schag’s final remarks encapsulated this spirit.
“And so again, thank you so much, Brigitte, for all that you do year in and year out protecting our children, providing safe homes, bringing awareness to what we have in Richland County and how to deal with it,” he said.