Step Up for Kids
Step Up for Kids
On Tuesday, April 14, Children’s Trust, advocates, program partners, board members, and legislators gathered at the Massachusetts State House for our annual Step Up for Kids event in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Fifty-seven pairs of children’s shoes lined the Grand Staircase — representing the average number of children confirmed as abused or neglected every day in Massachusetts. The event began with sixty-four pairs of shoes on the staircase, representing the number of children abused and neglected daily in the previous year. Seven pairs were removed to reflect the positive impact of family support programs across the Commonwealth.
The display served as a powerful reminder of the children behind the numbers, and the urgent need to support families before challenges arise. While the data reflects real progress worth celebrating, it also underscores how much work remains.
Prevention is Possible
Throughout the event, speakers emphasized a shared message: child abuse and neglect prevention is possible when families have access to timely, coordinated support.
Preventing abuse requires sustained investment in programs that address root causes of child abuse and neglect such as mental health challenges, housing instability, food insecurity, and economic stress.
“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, Children’s Trust Executive Director
The shoes displayed at the State House were generously donated by an anonymous donor and will be distributed to families participating in Children’s Trust funded programs across Massachusetts.
What began as a visual reminder of need will continue on as tangible support for families statewide.
Stepping Up for Kids at the Massachusetts State House
On Wednesday, April 16, Children's Trust advocates, program partners, board members, and legislators gathered for our annual Step Up for Kids event at the Massachusetts State House to recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month and draw attention to a critical need: investing in the family support workforce.
