There will be a number of Pinwheel for Prevention ceremonies in Chautauqua County in April.

April marks Child Abuse Prevention Month, and county officials will hold several awareness events throughout the month that includes a new declaration ceremony in Westfield.

Westfield officials will officially proclaim April as Child Abuse Advocacy and Prevention Month during a special ceremony at Eason Hall on Tuesday, April 1, 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 planting, Jamestown City Hall, 200 E Third St., April 2, at 1:15 p.m.

– Mayville planting, Chautauqua Municipal Building, 2 Academy St., April 7, at 3:30 p.m.

– Dunkirk planting, Dunkirk City Hall, 342 Central Ave., April 10, at 1 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 more than 2,100 reports of child abuse in 2024, with 25% of cases substantiated by DSS. County residents are encouraged to wear blue at the 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. If you suspect child abuse or neglect, contact the NY State Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-342-3720.