In recognition of April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office issued a ceremonial resolution reaffirming the County’s commitment to protecting children, strengthening families, and advancing community-wide prevention efforts.
The resolution was formally presented during the Board of County Commissioners public meeting on Thursday, April 2. Additionally, on Friday, April 10 — Wear Blue Day — Victim Advocates, Special Victims Unit (SVU) Detectives, and County employees wore blue in solidarity with children and families, helping raise awareness about the importance of safe, supportive environments where all children can thrive.
The resolution affirms that children are among the most vulnerable members of the community and underscores the importance of fostering safe, stable, and nurturing conditions that support healthy development. It also recognizes child abuse as a widespread issue that demands sustained awareness, active community involvement, and a shared commitment from residents to prevent it.
“Protecting children is one of the most fundamental responsibilities we share as a community,” Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios said. “In Middlesex County, we are committed to investing in prevention, strengthening families, and working collaboratively to ensure every child has access to the safe, supportive environment they need to grow and succeed.
“We thank Prosecutor [Linda] Estremera and her team for their continued leadership and partnership, and we look forward to building on this work together to keep our children safe.”
Estremera said the county focuses on “proactive, prevention-driven efforts to prevent child abuse and neglect” in efforts to continue to prioritize the safety of children and the well-being of families.
“The Prosecutor’s Office remains committed to holding offenders accountable, supporting victims, and collaborating with law enforcement and community partners to ensure every report is treated with urgency and care,” she said. “Preventing child abuse and neglect depends on vigilance, strong coordination, and active community involvement.”
“Prevention is at the core of building healthier, safer communities,” added Middlesex County Deputy Director Shanti Narra, chair of the County’s Public Safety and Health Committee. “Through coordinated efforts across public safety, health, and human services, Middlesex County delivers early intervention, access to family support, and strengthens the prevention infrastructure that protects children and promotes long-term well-being.”
Middlesex County’s efforts are strengthened through ongoing collaboration with child welfare professionals, educators, healthcare providers, law enforcement, faith-based organizations, and local stakeholders. The resolution further affirms the Prosecutor’s Office’s commitment to advancing responsive, effective systems that prioritize the well-being of children and families, including continued investment in prevention initiatives such as home-visiting programs, family-strengthening policies, and community-based support services.
Residents are encouraged to uphold Child Abuse Prevention Month by raising awareness, supporting local prevention efforts, and fostering a culture of care, vigilance, responsibility, and accountability across the community.
For more information about the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, including details on programs and initiatives, visit middlesexcountynj.gov/prosecutor.
