March 30, 2026 | Cullman, AL — The City of Cullman officially recognized April as Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month with a proclamation presented Monday, March 30, 2026, at City Hall.
The proclamation emphasizes the importance of awareness, early intervention, and strong community partnerships in preventing child abuse and neglect and supporting children and families.
Present for the proclamation were Melissa Betts of The Link, Gail Swafford of the Child Advocacy Center of Cullman (Brooks’ Place), and Javon Daniel and Alyson Miley of Cullman Caring for Kids, organizations that provide critical advocacy, education, and support services throughout Cullman and the surrounding area.
Cullman is supported by a network of organizations working year-round to serve children and families, including the Child Advocacy Center of Cullman (Brooks’ Place), Cullman Caring for Kids, Cullman County CASA, the Department of Human Resources, The Link of Cullman County, and The Willow Path (formerly Victim Services of Cullman). These groups provide services ranging from child advocacy and court-appointed representation to family support, education, and resources for those experiencing crisis.
Mayor Woody Jacobs thanked the organizations serving local families. “We appreciate the work these groups do every day to support children and families in our community,” said Mayor Jacobs.
Child abuse prevention is a shared responsibility, and residents are encouraged to learn the signs of abuse and neglect and to speak up when concerns arise. Suspected child abuse or neglect can be reported to Cullman County DHR at 256-737-5300, to local law enforcement through the Cullman Police Department at 256-734-1434 or the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office at 256-734-0342, or by calling 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453). If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.
For more information on local resources, visit:
• Child Advocacy Center of Cullman (Brooks’ Place): www.cullmancac.com
• Cullman Caring for Kids: www.cullmancaringforkids.com
• Cullman County CASA: www.cullmancaringforkids.com/casa.html
• Alabama Department of Human Resources: dhr.alabama.gov
• The Link of Cullman County: www.thelinkofcullman.org
• The Willow Path: www.thewillowpath.org
Pictured L-R: Gail Swafford (Brooks’ Place), Melissa Betts (The Link), Mayor Jacobs, Javon Daniel & Alyson Miley (Cullman Caring for Kids)