Step Up for Kids: Berkshire County
Step Up for Kids: Berkshire County
Sixty-five pairs of children’s shoes lined the steps of Pittsfield City Hall on Friday, April 17, 2026, morning for Child Abuse Prevention Month, representing the average number of children confirmed as abused or neglected every month in Berkshire County. The display served as the centerpiece of the Children’s Trust’s and Child Care of the Berkshires’ annual Step Up for Kids event, where speakers emphasized that child abuse is preventable when families receive support early. Leaders stressed that preventing child abuse and neglect requires coordinated, sustained investment in programs that support families and address root causes like mental health and economic insecurity.
“We know that when families can access resources and get support early, before challenges escalate, outcomes are better across the board,” said Jennifer Valenzuela, Executive Director of the Children’s Trust, a statewide public-private organization dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect.
“Because the reality is, families are dealing with a lot. Beyond the everyday stress of parenting, many are navigating concerns about housing, food, income, childcare, all while navigating systems that aren’t always easy to understand or access. When families can get support sooner, we strengthen families and create better outcomes for children across the Commonwealth.”
Jennifer Valenzuela, Executive Director of the Children’s Trust
The Children’s Trust and Child Care of the Berkshires were joined by community leaders, including Representative John Barrett, Chair of House Committee on Operations, Facilities and Security; Representative Tricia Farley-Bouvier, Chair of the Joint Committee on Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity; Representative Leigh Davis; District Attorney Timothy J. Shugrue; and Pittsfield Mayor Peter M. Marchetti.
Amy Hall, President and CEO of Child Care of the Berkshires, stated that “CCB has a variety of programs that focus on supporting and strengthening families. Our home visitors connect families to community programs and provide them with consistent support, encouragement and knowledge of child development. Our goal is to strengthen the parents or caregivers to give them the confidence they need to help children thrive. As we heard from Kaycee today, these programs empower parents to make positive choices. Parents want what is best for their children and we help them to reach their goals so their whole family can be healthy and strong.”
Stepping Up for Kids at Pittsfield City Hall
On Friday, April 17, the Children’s Trust partnered with Child Care of the Berkshires for their annual Step Up for Kids event. The event brought individuals together to recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month and highlight prevention efforts and family support programs in Berkshire County.
